TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro and KTT Strawberry mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique features that cater to different user preferences. The Gold Red Pro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience suitable for a range of users. Its neutral sound signature makes it ideal for any environment, whether it be for gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions. On the other hand, the Strawberry linear switch stands out with its attractive pink and clear housings, offering a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Gold Red Pro boasts qualities like being polished, thocky, and subtle, the Strawberry is described as low-pitched, frictionless, and buttery. 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
62g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Strawberry, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Gold Red Pro.
Despite having different bottom housings, the key tactile and auditory characteristics of both switches are influenced by the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material has a more pronounced impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the properties of the housing materials are perceived differently depending on the direction of the key press, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Strawberry plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, the differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound qualities. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. These differences highlight the importance of selecting the right housing materials to achieve the desired typing experience and sound characteristics in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, they both have a similar actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Gold Red Pro does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Strawberry has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it the heavier of the two switches in that aspect. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Strawberry for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a different typing feel, catering to the individual preferences of users based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, which is slightly shorter than the KTT Strawberry linear switch with a travel distance of 4mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Gold Red Pro offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Gold Red Pro for its faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the KTT Strawberry with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press 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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It also offers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro is characterized by its polished, silky, mild, and subtle attributes, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. In comparison, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for being frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing feel. Overall, both switches excel in their own unique qualities, with the Gold Red Pro offering a versatile and adaptable experience while the KTT Strawberry provides a smooth and frictionless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the specific needs and preferences you have for your keyboard. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliability in your typing experience, the Strawberry switch could be more suitable. Both switches have their unique strengths, so make sure to assess what features are most important to you before making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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