TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility and ease of press, providing a smooth typing experience suitable for various tasks. In contrast, the KTT Matcha stands out for its comfortable tactility and distinct bottom-out sound, offering a satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users based on their preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Matcha, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while the top housing material is the same, the Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a sharper and clear sound profile, aligning with the attributes of the top housing.
While the top housing material of polycarbonate remains consistent between the Gold Red Pro and the Matcha, the differences in their bottom housing materials provide unique characteristics to each keyboard. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, resulting in a distinct typing experience that emphasizes depth. Conversely, the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, complementing the crispness of its top housing material. These variations highlight how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard.
In practical terms, the combination of different housing materials in the Gold Red Pro and the Matcha results in a nuanced typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By strategically utilizing polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings, respectively, both keyboards offer a balanced mix of sharpness and depth in their sound profiles, catering to different preferences among users.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Matcha surpasses the Gold Red Pro with 45 grams of force compared to the unknown force of the Gold Red Pro. This means that while the Gold Red Pro may require a bit more force to initiate a keystroke, the Matcha provides a lighter typing experience but requires more force for bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha may be the better choice, especially for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gold Red Pro despite the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Matcha switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Gold Red Pro offers a shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Matcha switch with its slightly longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 sound profile, making it suitable for various environments without being too obtrusive. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, adding a unique auditory experience to typing sessions. When considering the sound aspect, the Gold Red Pro leans towards a more versatile and balanced sound, while the Matcha introduces a more distinct and lively sound signature.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. On the contrary, the KTT Matcha switch is characterized as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and also subtle. This suggests that the Matcha switch offers a more tactile typing experience with varying levels of feedback throughout the keystroke. The Gold Red Pro focuses on delivering a consistent and smooth typing feel, while the Matcha prioritizes a more dynamic and responsive tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro excels in providing a neutral sound signature and a polished, subtle typing experience, whereas the KTT Matcha showcases a clacky sound and a stepped, accented tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Gold Red Pro leaning towards versatility and balance, while the Matcha offers a more dynamic and tactile typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy tactility and clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha could be the better option. Think about your desired typing feel, sound preference, and intended use for the keyboard when making your decision. Both switches have unique characteristics to offer, so it's important to evaluate what matters most to you in a keyboard switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red Pro and Matcha comes down to what will enhance your overall typing experience.
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