TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch stand out as excellent choices. The Gold Red Pro is known for its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch boasts a light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump, making typing effortless and enjoyable. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability, the Phalaenopsis shines in providing a unique 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis lies in their bottom housing materials. The Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in different typing experiences for users of each keyboard.
However, both the Gold Red Pro and the Phalaenopsis share the same polycarbonate top housing material. Polycarbonate is valued for its ability to create a clear and resonant sound profile, making it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in top housing material suggest that users of both keyboards can expect a similar sound experience when pressing down on the keys. This consistent choice of material may also contribute to a cohesive aesthetic for both keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gold Red Pro and the Phalaenopsis highlights a balance between sound quality and aesthetic appeal. While the Gold Red Pro prioritizes a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, the Phalaenopsis opts for a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. The shared polycarbonate top housing ensures a consistent sound experience for users of both keyboards, emphasizing the importance of material selection in creating a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unknown, while the Phalaenopsis has a force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The Gold Red Pro would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force, while the Phalaenopsis would be preferred by those who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to select the one that best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Gold Red Pro offers a slightly quicker response time which may be preferred by gamers seeking speed and precision. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a slightly deeper press, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial key feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a harmonious typing experience that is not too loud or too soft. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a more bass-heavy and thocky sound, giving each keystroke a deep and satisfying tone. Both switches excel in their sound qualities, but the Gold Red Pro leans towards a more neutral tone, while the Phalaenopsis offers a richer and fuller sound.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, where smooth key travel and reduced friction create a refined feel suitable for various typing preferences. The KTT Phalaenopsis, on the other hand, offers a stepped tactile sensation, providing a mild and discernible tactile bump for each keystroke. While the Gold Red Pro focuses on a smooth and gentle typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a more defined tactile feedback with its stepped design.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Gold Red Pro excels in providing a versatile and adaptable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Phalaenopsis stands out with its beautiful design, light actuation force, and satisfying tactile bump. Whether you prefer a smoother and polished typing feel or a more tactile and stepped sensation, both switches will deliver excellent performance for a variety of typing tasks.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a polished, silky feel, then the Gold Red Pro may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a satisfying tactile bump and a beautiful translucent design that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions, then the Phalaenopsis switch could be more suitable. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, so carefully consider what factors are most important to you before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what you prioritize most in your typing experience.
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