TTC Gold Red vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to look at are the TTC Gold Red and the KTT MoonRosa, both being linear switches. The Gold Red is renowned for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, providing a satisfying feel with a subtle snappy sound profile. In contrast, the MoonRosa boasts an all-POM construction for enhanced smoothness and a neutral sound signature. While the Gold Red is characterized by its 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Subtle' attributes, the MoonRosa is known for being 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. These general features make both switches appealing choices depending on your preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and KTT MoonRosa switches differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound when typing. In contrast, the MoonRosa utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound experience. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences for typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gold Red employs a nylon material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the MoonRosa utilizes a POM bottom housing, which shares the same characteristics of creating a deep and muted sound. Despite the different housing materials used in the switches, both the Gold Red and MoonRosa offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and resonance.
Overall, the choice between the Gold Red and MoonRosa switches comes down to personal preference in typing sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the MoonRosa offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings contribute to a fuller and rounder sound experience for both switches. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and muted sound, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the KTT MoonRosa's 37 grams, making the Gold Red slightly heavier in this aspect. However, both switches have relatively light actuation forces, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams while the MoonRosa needs slightly less at 45 grams, indicating that the Gold Red is also heavier in this regard. Despite these differences, both switches fall into the lighter category when compared to other switches on the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the MoonRosa, offering a more traditional feel when pressing down on a key. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances like the MoonRosa for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial press may opt for the Gold Red. Overall, both switches provide a smooth typing experience with their linear design, but the slight variation in travel distance can cater to different preferences in key feel.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound signature, contributing to a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches give off a smooth and pleasant sound, with the Gold Red having a slightly more pronounced and snappy sound compared to the MoonRosa's more neutral and subtle tone. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized by its mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience. These qualities result in a gentle typing feel with minimal resistance, allowing for smooth and effortless key presses. Similarly, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with light actuation force making typing comfortable and efficient. Both switches provide a gentle and approachable typing feel that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The polished finish of the Gold Red and the easy-to-press nature of the MoonRosa enhance the overall typing experience by reducing friction and fatigue during extended use.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offer buttery smooth typing experiences, they differ slightly in their sound and feel qualities. The Gold Red switch leans towards a snappier and more pronounced sound with a silky and polished feel, while the MoonRosa switch provides a more neutral and mellow sound profile with an easy-to-press and mild typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, either switch would be a great choice for a smooth and enjoyable typing session. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction and performance from both switches in terms of their linear and responsive characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch 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. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an all-POM construction and a neutral sound signature, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its buttery smooth typing experience and low-pitched sound profile, the MoonRosa switch provides a comfortable and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Gold Red and MoonRosa switches will depend on your personal preferences for resistance level, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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