TTC Gold Pink vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself torn between the TTC Gold Pink and the TKC Kiwi. On one hand, the Gold Pink offers a light and effortless typing experience with its 37g actuation force, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming. Its clacky sound provides a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, giving you that tactile response you crave. Its snappy sound profile immerses you in each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the TKC Kiwi differ in their housing materials, specifically in their top and bottom housings. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Kiwi incorporates a UHWMPE top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, UHWMPE is a newer material for switch housings that produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Despite the differences, both materials are ideal for switches with clear housings and RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gold Pink utilizes a nylon material, while the Kiwi uses UHWMPE for its bottom housing. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. Conversely, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to its bright sound signature and resonant clacks. While the two materials vary in sound characteristics, they both impact the overall sound profile of the switches.
When comparing the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom greatly influences the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing, whether nylon or UHWMPE, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or UHWMPE, has a more notable impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, it is important to note that both the Gold Pink and the Kiwi offer unique sound profiles that enthusiasts may appreciate.
In summary, the TTC Gold Pink and the TKC Kiwi differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing produces a bright sound signature. Additionally, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to its bright sound and resonant clacks. Nevertheless, both switches offer their own unique and desirable characteristics, enhancing the typing experience for different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Gold Pink switch possesses a lighter touch, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Kiwi switch requires a slightly stronger push, as it has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Therefore, for those desiring a more effortless typing experience or extended usage periods, the Gold Pink switch would be a favorable choice due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing feel might lean towards the TKC Kiwi switch, with its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the variation in force requirements between the two switches allows for a tailored typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches provide a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, based on its light actuation force and clacky sound, it can be inferred that the Gold Pink switch will produce a higher-pitched, crisp sound that adds a satisfying level of feedback to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that the Kiwi switch will have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, but with different tonal characteristics.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is described as having a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. These descriptors indicate that the Gold Pink switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. The typing sensation is comfortable for extended typing sessions and provides a gentle resistance without being too feather-light. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek and refined feel, reducing friction and offering smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. This implies that the Kiwi switch provides a two-stage tactile feedback, with a prominent yet not overwhelming level of tactility. The switch also offers a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to its polished finish. Overall, both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Gold Pink providing a light and seamless feeling and the Kiwi offering a more distinct and medium-level of tactility.
Considering the available information, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch provides a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a medium-level tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. Both switches are suitable for different preferences and purposes. If you prefer a fast and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, the Gold Pink switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you value a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a medium-level tactile feedback, the Kiwi switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between TTC Gold Pink linear switches and TKC Kiwi tactile switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, particularly for fast typing or gaming, then the Gold Pinks would be an excellent choice. With their 37g actuation force and clacky sound, these switches provide a lively typing experience that is smooth and seamless. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium to medium-strong tactile bump at the top of each key press and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a more substantial typing feel. Additionally, both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, with the Gold Pink described as having a lively and seamless sound and the Kiwi described as having a satisfyingly snappy sound. When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switches are described as smooth and seamless, while the Kiwi switches are described as medium to medium-strong. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision, as well as whether you prioritize lightness and speed or a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
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