TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options to consider are the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Laurel, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for any setting, whether it be for gaming, work, or leisure. On the other hand, the Laurel boasts a medium-light feel with a full POM housing and short travel, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. While the Gold Red Pro is labeled as ['Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subtle'], the Laurel is categorized as ['Low-pitched', 'Snappy']. Both switches have their own strengths and advantages, but ultimately, the choice between the two 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Laurel, it is clear that both switches have unique characteristics that set them apart. The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, giving users a different auditory sensation. Despite these differences, both switches excel in their own way, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Laurel's POM bottom housing contributes to its unique sound profile, adding to the deeper and more muted tones that characterize this switch. While both switches offer different sound experiences based on their bottom housing materials, they both showcase the versatility of various housing materials in creating distinct typing sensations.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Laurel highlight the importance of material choices in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the Gold Red Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon produces a clear and resonant typing experience, the Laurel's POM housing materials create a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these distinctions, both switches demonstrate how the careful selection of housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their preferences in sound profile. Thus, whether opting for the Gold Red Pro or the Laurel, users can expect a premium typing experience tailored to their individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch is the same at 43 grams. This means that both switches will require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro has an unknown value while the Laurel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier of the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option as it does not have a specified bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Laurel switch with its higher bottom out force of 50 grams. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Gold Red Pro with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral and low-pitched sound profile that is pleasing to the ears without being overly obtrusive. It provides a satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed, adding to the typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch presents a subtly low-pitched sound profile that is also mellow and bass-heavy, creating a calming auditory environment. Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, making them suitable for various settings depending on personal preferences and the surrounding environment.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances typing comfort. The mild and subtle characteristics of this switch make it approachable to most users, allowing for a gentle typing experience that is not overly demanding. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering ultra-responsiveness due to its longer or dual-staged springs. This results in a typing experience that feels more alive and dynamic, catering to users who prefer a more tactile feedback during typing sessions.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red Pro provides a neutral and low-pitched sound with a polished and silky typing feel, the Laurel offers a subtly low-pitched sound with a snappy and responsive typing experience. Choosing between these two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and responsiveness. It's important to consider how these qualities align with your personal preferences and intended use case to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when making a choice between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value versatility, a neutral sound profile, and a smooth typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal pick for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force, a low-pitched sound, and a snappy typing feel, the Laurel could be the perfect match. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so take into account what matters most to you when making your decision.
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