TTC Gold Pink vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Phalaenopsis. While both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, they differ in their key characteristics. The Gold Pink is a linear switch, known for its light actuation force of 37g, making it perfect for swift and effortless typing or gaming. It provides a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound and delivers a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch with a light actuation force of 37g as well. This switch is designed to minimize finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, thanks to its beautiful translucent appearance. With a tactile bump of 50g, it ensures each keystroke is a delightful experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Phalaenopsis both feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic than others, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create visually appealing effects. Therefore, users of both switches can expect similar sound qualities and visual aesthetics when it comes to the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Pink has a nylon material while the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phalaenopsis, similar to its top housing, emphasizes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of typing experience, the differences in bottom housing materials between the Gold Pink and the Phalaenopsis will affect the sound and feel when pressing down on a key and releasing it. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced typing experience with these switches, as the qualities of the respective housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sensitivity. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The Gold Pink has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Phalaenopsis requires slightly more force for a full press compared to the Gold Pink.
In terms of weight, both switches can be considered light. This is advantageous for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, especially for those who need to use their keyboards extensively during work or gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push, they may lean towards options with heavier forces.
Overall, while the actuation forces of the Gold Pink and the Phalaenopsis are identical, the difference in bottom out forces suggests that the Phalaenopsis provides a slightly heavier typing experience. It is important for individuals to consider these variations in force when choosing a switch that aligns with their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel a similar distance of travel for both switches. Thus, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 Gold Pink switch offers a clacky sound, which provides a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone. Both switches deliver enjoyable typing experiences in terms of sound, but the Phalaenopsis switch offers a different sound profile with its bassy and thocky qualities.
In terms of feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides a smooth, gentle, light, and polished typing experience. It offers a seamless and uniform sensation, reduces finger fatigue, and is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, meaning it has a mild tactile bump and a two-stage keystroke feel. This provides a different typing experience compared to the Gold Pink switch.
Overall, the Gold Pink and Phalaenopsis switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch delivers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, along with a mild tactile bump and a two-stage keystroke feel. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, but their specific qualities cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a light and lively typing experience, the Gold Pink switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a deeper sound profile and a mild tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a better option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize speed and effortless typing, along with a satisfying level of feedback, the Gold Pinks would be an excellent choice. They have a light bottom out force of 45 grams and provide a light and lively typing experience, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming.
On the other hand, if you value a delightful and effortless typing experience with minimized finger fatigue, the Phalaenopsis switches would suit you well. With a bottom out force of 50 grams and a discernible tactile bump, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. Moreover, the Phalaenopsis switches have a stepped feel, meaning they have two stages in the keystroke, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink switches have a clacky sound, while the Phalaenopsis switches provide a bassy and thocky sound profile, resembling deep and rich tones during key presses.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switches are described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced finger fatigue. The Phalaenopsis switches, on the other hand, have a stepped feel, providing a more mild tactile experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gold Pink switches and Phalaenopsis switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Consider what matters most to you and choose accordingly.
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