TTC Gold Red Pro vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TKC Kiwi are two highly sought-after options that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro, a linear switch, is praised for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Kiwi, a tactile switch, offers a unique typing experience with a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, accompanied by a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability and harmonious typing, the Kiwi stands out for its tactile feedback and immersive typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TKC Kiwi are different, with the Gold Red Pro featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Kiwi has a UHWMPE top housing and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, while nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, UHWMPE offers a very bright sound signature, providing resonant clacks when typing. The differences in housing materials lead to distinct sound characteristics and typing experiences for each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gold Red Pro and the TKC Kiwi aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red Pro is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when using RGB lighting. On the other hand, the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi offers a bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks while typing. While the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro absorbs more sound for a duller sound profile, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to a brighter sound experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TKC Kiwi play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing feel of each switch. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate and softer nylon of the Gold Red Pro or the bright UHWMPE of the Kiwi, each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the switches. While the specific characteristics may vary, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts seeking a particular sound signature.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch both have an actuation force of 43 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro does not have a specified force, while the Kiwi requires 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Kiwi for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red Pro being slightly shorter than the Kiwi. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Kiwi with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TKC Kiwi switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The Gold Red Pro provides a thocky and neutral sound, while the Kiwi delivers a satisfyingly snappy and neutral sound. This means that both switches are suitable for most environments and preferences, with the main difference lying in the specific characteristics of the sound produced. The choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound aesthetics.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a more tactile and pronounced typing experience with a medium bump at the top of each key press. While the Gold Red Pro emphasizes smoothness and gentle typing, the Kiwi offers a more structured and tactile feel. Again, the decision between the two would depend on whether the user prefers a smoother and more subtle typing experience or a more tactile and pronounced one.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have their own unique strengths that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility and adaptability, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi offers a more tactile typing experience with a medium-strong bump and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user values smoothness and adaptability or tactile feedback and pronounced sound in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch would be your best bet. This switch is adaptable to various settings and preferences, making it a great all-around choice for gaming, work, or casual typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium to medium-heavy bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi switch would be more suited to your preference. With a snappy sound profile and factory lubed for a smooth typing experience, the Kiwi switch provides an immersive typing experience right out of the box. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches would depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and versatility (Gold Red Pro) or tactility and snappiness (TKC Kiwi) in your typing experience.
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