TTC Gold Pink vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Strawberry. The Gold Pink is renowned for being one of the lightest switches available with a 37g actuation force. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize speed and ease in their typing experience, whether it be for rapid typing or gaming. Additionally, the Gold Pink offers a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is cherished for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With its attractive pink and clear housings, it not only delivers on aesthetics but also offers a low-pitched, frictionless typing experience. Both switches fall under the category of 'Buttery' and 'Polished,' emphasizing their smoothness and refinement. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Strawberry share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting applications. This similarity suggests that users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using these switches.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ. The Gold Pink incorporates nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the properties of the top housing, creating a consistent sharp and clear sound quality. This distinction means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will be influenced by the materials used in their respective bottom housings.
When it comes to the release of a key, the impact of the top housing is more pronounced. As the top housing of both switches is made from polycarbonate, users can anticipate a consistent and resonant sound when they let go of a key. This suggests that the release sound profile will be similar for both the Gold Pink and the Strawberry.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Strawberry share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the choice of housing materials in their bottom housings introduces variations in sound profiles. The Gold Pink with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Strawberry maintains the sharp and clear sound quality throughout its polycarbonate housing construction. Nevertheless, both switches are likely to provide similar results when it comes to the release sound profile due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see several differences. The Gold Pink switch has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, which means it requires a gentle push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Strawberry switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience.
Moving onto the bottom out force, the Gold Pink switch has a force of 45 grams, while the Strawberry switch requires a heavier force of 62 grams. This indicates that the Strawberry switch offers a noticeably more resistant bottoming out experience compared to the Gold Pink switch.
Considering the weight aspect, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Gold Pink switch make it suitable for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience. This lighter weight allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for work situations or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch, with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, provides a more substantial and forceful typing experience. This may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push and desire a more tactile feel when typing.
In conclusion, the Gold Pink linear switch offers a lighter typing experience with lower actuation and bottom out forces, while the Strawberry linear switch provides a slightly heavier and more forceful typing experience with slightly higher forces. However, if one seeks similar results to either switch, they should look for options with comparable actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have the same 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 and equal distance of travel. Both switches offer a tactile experience where the movement of the key is noticeable, allowing for precise and responsive typing. Whether you choose the TTC Gold Pink or the KTT Strawberry, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing experience.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 switch is described as clacky and satisfying. It offers a level of feedback that adds to the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which typically implies a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This can create a different auditory experience compared to the Gold Pink switch, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, while the sound qualities differ between the two switches, both can provide a pleasant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a range of descriptors. It is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The actuation force required for these switches is feathery, making them exceptionally light to press and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Gold Pink switch has a subtle typing feel and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless and silky. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It also has a buttery and polished feel, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches provide comfortable and enjoyable typing experiences, but they may have slight differences in terms of lightness and smoothness.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have their own unique qualities. The Gold Pink switch is praised for its light actuation force, clacky sound, and buttery, feathery feel. It offers a light and lively typing experience that is ideal for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With a low-pitched sound and frictionless, silky feel, it provides a different but equally enjoyable typing experience. While there may be some variations in sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying level of feedback and a smooth keystroke experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. If someone is looking for a light, clacky typing experience, the Gold Pink switch would be a great option. If they prefer a smooth, low-pitched typing experience, the Strawberry switch would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a light and effortless typing experience, especially for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, making them some of the lightest switches available. They offer a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and prioritize smooth actuation, comfort, and reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be the better option for you. The Strawberry switches are loved for their attractive pink and clear housings and offer a comfortable feel during typing. They also have descriptors like "low-pitched," "silky," and "polished," indicating a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink and KTT Strawberry switches depends on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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