TTC Gold Red vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Laurel, both offering their own unique features and benefits. The Gold Red, a linear switch, is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. With a snappy sound profile, these switches add a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too flashy. On the other hand, the Laurel, also a linear switch, stands out with its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, striking the perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel provides a pleasant typing experience. Both switches have their own merits, making it difficult to choose. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can better 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Laurel differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Laurel utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. The POM material lends itself to a unique sound profile that many find pleasing. While both materials contribute to an enjoyable sound experience, the Gold Red offers a sharper and more distinct sound, while the Laurel provides a deeper and more subdued tone.
Both the Gold Red and the Laurel have bottom housings made of different materials. The Gold Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Laurel features a POM bottom housing that contributes to its pleasing and unique sound. The presence of POM in the bottom housing leads to a deeper and more muted sound. Therefore, despite differences in the specific materials used, both switches offer a sound experience characterized by depth and richness.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that they have distinct effects. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, as it absorbs more sound and contributes to a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Gold Red and the Laurel may differ, the general qualities associated with each housing material remain similar. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles, allowing users to find their preferred balance between sharpness and depth.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is evident that both switches have identical force requirements. With an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a light and effortless typing experience. Those who prefer a lightweight switch will appreciate the ease of typing for extended periods, making it suitable for work or extensive gaming sessions. Both the Gold Red and Laurel switches provide a similar result in terms of force, ensuring a consistent and comfortable typing experience for users. Whether it is the lighter weight that pleases users or the desire for a stronger push feel to enhance the typing experience, these switches offer a perfect balance for different preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, making it the longer of the two options. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Red's travel distance falls within the more traditional range, while the Laurel's falls on the shallower end. In recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. Choosing a switch with a shorter travel distance can result in a more responsive typing or gaming experience. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer the hearty depth provided by a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing or gaming 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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 is best described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches have a low-pitched sound, the Gold Red is known for its thocky sound, which provides a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Therefore, both switches offer pleasant sound profiles, with the Gold Red being more unique in its thocky nature.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild and silky typing experience. With its gentle typing feel and minimal resistance, it offers a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it suitable for most users, as its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. This is due to longer or dual-staged springs, which can make the typing experience feel more alive. While both switches offer a pleasant typing feel, the Gold Red provides a more gentle and approachable experience, while the Laurel offers a snappier and more responsive feel.
In conclusion, the Gold Red and Laurel switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, adding personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. It also offers a mild and silky typing experience, with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a snappier typing experience, thanks to its super responsive nature. While both switches have their unique qualities, users can expect a pleasant typing experience with either option. Depending on personal preferences, one may lean towards the Gold Red for a smooth and refined feel, or the Laurel for a more responsive and lively experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. This switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced users, whether you use it at home or work. Additionally, the Gold Red switch provides a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch that strikes the perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel switch is the way to go. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This switch is known for its snappy characteristics, making it super responsive and giving your typing experience a lively feel.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Gold Red and KTT Laurel switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a snappy sound profile, go for the Gold Red. If you value a balanced combination of responsiveness, comfort, and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel is the switch for you. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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