TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and KTT Lightning both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Lightning is considered a "speed" switch, ideal for situations where quick response times are crucial. While the Gold Red Pro appeals to those seeking a polished and mild typing experience, the Lightning is favored for its clacky feel and high-pitched sound profile. 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
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Red Pro and KTT Lightning switches are quite similar in terms of their top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a more resonant sound. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound and look when using either of these switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Lightning also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their housing. Therefore, users can expect a slight variance in sound when bottoming out keys between the Gold Red Pro and the Lightning switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gold Red Pro and Lightning switches respectively provides a unique typing experience. While both switches offer similar sound characteristics due to their polycarbonate top housing, the different bottom housing materials result in a slightly varied sound profile when bottoming out keys. Whether users prefer a sharper, crisper sound with stiffer polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound with softer nylon, both the Gold Red Pro and Lightning switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro and KTT Lightning linear switches both have the same actuation force of 43 grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unknown while the Lightning switch requires a lighter 50 grams of force to fully press down. This means that the Gold Red Pro may offer a softer typing experience overall compared to the Lightning switch, which provides a slightly firmer and more substantial push feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the KTT Lightning switch may be the preferable option. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more solid and deliberate typing experience may find the TTC Gold Red Pro to be the better choice, assuming that its bottom out force is not significantly higher than that of the Lightning switch. Ultimately, the weight difference between the two switches can affect the typing experience and is an important factor to consider when choosing between them.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making the Gold Red Pro the longer-travel option. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly longer distance to travel compared to the Lightning, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Lightning switch's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers and those seeking faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, but the slight difference in distance may impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding key feel and performance.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 comparing the sound of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, the Gold Red Pro offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying tone without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a sharp and bright noise with a hint of chirpiness. If you prefer a more neutral and mellow sound, the Gold Red Pro would be the ideal choice, whereas the Lightning switch caters to those who enjoy a crisper and more percussive sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gold Red Pro and the Lightning are described as having a subtle and polished typing experience. The Gold Red Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, and subtle feel, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined typing experience. Similarly, the Lightning switch is also described as subtle and polished, ensuring a gentle resistance and smooth key travel that enhances the overall typing feel. In this aspect, both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience that is suitable for various preferences.
In conclusion, while the Gold Red Pro and the Lightning switches offer slightly different sound profiles, they both provide a smooth and polished typing experience. The Gold Red Pro excels in offering a neutral and versatile sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of settings, while the Lightning switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound that adds a unique flair to typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on your preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a pleasant typing experience with their subtle and polished characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of settings, whether you are gaming, working in an office, or simply typing for leisure. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch that prioritizes speed and precision, the KTT Lightning linear switch is a great option. With a light bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switches excel in situations where milliseconds can make a difference. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing needs.
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