TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Kang White both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard world. The Gold Red Pro is lauded for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for a variety of settings. On the other hand, the Kang White stands out for its poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. While each switch has its own strengths, such as the Gold Red Pro's adaptability and the Kang White's smoothness, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Kang White, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material suggest that both switches will produce similar sound profiles when pressed.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Red Pro and the Kang White use nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The ability of nylon to absorb more sound than harder plastics creates a duller and rounder sound, adding a different dimension to the typing experience. Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the feel and sound when pressing down on the keys may vary slightly due to other factors at play in the switch construction.
In terms of overall typing experience and sound production, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Kang White plays a significant role. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound, the differing nylon bottom housings provide a contrast in sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone. The split between the top and bottom housing materials affects the impact of pressing down and letting go of keys, contributing to the overall tactile feel and sound experience of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we see some differences. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Kang White's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Kang White is heavier at 58 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force remains unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kang White with its heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Kang White offers a more balanced typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and a noticeably heavier bottom out force compared to the Gold Red Pro.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Kang White linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Kang White being more on the traditional side. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Kang White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is also low-pitched with a neutral sound profile, but it is specifically highlighted for its self-lubricating material that provides an exceptionally smooth typing sound. Both switches are well-suited for a variety of environments and preferences, with the Gold Red Pro being versatile and harmonious, while the Kang White excels in providing a dazzling sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal sound. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the specific feel descriptors for the KTT Kang White switch. However, with the self-lubricating material mentioned for the Kang White, it can be assumed that it provides a similarly smooth and refined typing feel like the Gold Red Pro.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch offer impressive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro excels in versatility and neutral sound profile, while providing a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White stands out for its self-lubricating material, offering a dazzling sound experience with presumably smooth key travel. Depending on individual preferences and the desired typing experience, both switches present compelling options for users seeking a high-quality linear switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, you must consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro is the way to go. It is polished, silky, and provides a mild and subtle typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a poppy typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White is the better choice. It has a low-pitched sound profile and is self-lubricating for a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize versatility and ease of use or a distinctive sound profile and smoothness in your mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
