TTC Gold Red vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the TKC Kiwi. The Gold Red is a linear switch that offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Its snappy sound profile adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch is a tactile option designed to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. It delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that immerses you in your typing. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the TKC Kiwi switches differ in terms of their compositions and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material is known for its stiffness, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Although both materials contribute to a distinct sound, their characteristics differ.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Gold Red incorporates a nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Conversely, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing continues with its bright sound signature, enhancing the resonant clacks that are experienced while using switches with such housings. Despite both being bottom housings, their materials offer contrasting sound qualities.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switch, it is essential to note that if the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each material will be split between the two ends of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will primarily reflect the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key will be more influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. Therefore, while the Gold Red and Kiwi may share similarities in terms of delivering unique sounds, their distinct housing materials ensure a different auditory experience when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is clear that they have some similarities but also notable differences. In terms of actuation force, both switches require 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, meaning that users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and speed. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the switches differ significantly. The Gold Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light and may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Kiwi has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy and appealing to users who prefer a more substantial and satisfying push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a deep and satisfying sound without being too loud or high-pitched. Similarly, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Both switches deliver a pleasant typing experience with their sound, creating an immersive environment while typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With both switches offering a neutral sound profile, you can expect similar sound results from both options.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished. This means that it provides a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. The light-medium resistance of these switches adds to the overall feel of comfort. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is referred to as stepped, accented, and polished. These switches offer a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a notable level of tactility without being overwhelming. They also feature a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing feel, with the TKC Kiwi providing a more pronounced tactile experience compared to the smooth linear feel of the TTC Gold Red.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red provides a smooth and gentle typing experience with a thocky sound profile, while the Kiwi offers a more tactile feel with a medium-strong bump and a low-pitched sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in terms of typing experience, whether one prefers a linear switch or a tactile switch. However, it is important to consider that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when making a decision.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, the Gold Red switch is a great choice for you. It provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, making it approachable for most users. The snappy sound profile adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Kiwi switch would be more suitable. It enhances your typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a smooth feel right out of the box. Ultimately, the decision between the Gold Red and the Kiwi switch boils down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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