TTC Gold Red vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both are linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, while the Kiki Red provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance. The Gold Red is praised for its subtle personality and polished sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a smoother typing feel. On the other hand, the Kiki Red stands out for its distinctive clacky sound and easy-to-press actuation, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a balanced tactile 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Bsun Kiki Red differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. In contrast, the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer a unique sound experience tailored to different preferences - the Gold Red for those who prefer a crisper sound, and the Kiki Red for those who enjoy a deeper tone.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gold Red utilizes nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound experience. While the materials differ, both switches offer a similar deep sound characteristic, appealing to users who prefer a softer, more rounded sound profile. Despite the variation in housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing and auditory experience for users.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing in switches like the Gold Red and the Kiki Red allows for a balanced combination of qualities from each material. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate in the Gold Red or the deeper, muted sound of the POM in the Kiki Red, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches fall on the lighter side in terms of force required for key presses. This makes them ideal for users who enjoy a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push force, these switches may not provide the desired feedback. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options for users looking for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Kiki Red's 3.6 mm. Both distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red being on the longer side and the Kiki Red being slightly shorter. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing may opt for the Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 linear switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience without being too loud or disruptive. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a bright and percussive element to your typing.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with a subtle and polished finish that enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance during key presses. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red switch offers a creamy and frictionless feel, gliding effortlessly and smoothly with each keystroke, thanks to lubricant application and specific materials used in its construction.
Taking all the available information into account, both the TTC Gold Red and Bsun Kiki Red linear switches offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red leans towards a smoother and more neutral sound profile with a mild feel, the Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel for a unique typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both options guarantee a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile along with a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing feel, the Gold Red switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound profile and a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, or easy-to-press typing feel, then the Kiki Red switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific sensory experience you are seeking in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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