TTC Gold Red vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Rose, both of which are linear switches. The Gold Red switches are renowned for their buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. With a snappy sound profile, these switches add a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Rose switches offer more than meets the eye. Their progressive springs provide a uniquely substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience. When using these switches, one can almost hear the bassy raindrops cascading as they type. While these general descriptions offer some insights into the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and the KTT Rose both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This shared material choice results in similar benefits for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. Both the Gold Red and the Rose switches benefit from these advantages when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both the Gold Red and the Rose switches feature nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers a different type of sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the bottom housing of both the Gold Red and the Rose switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound during typing.
It is worth noting that despite sharing the same top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each housing type on the switch's sound and feel is different. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch, while the top housing has a more prominent effect on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, although the Gold Red and the Rose share similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom of the switch leads to variations in their overall sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there is a notable difference in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red has a light actuation force of 43 grams, meaning it requires a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Rose switch is unavailable, so it is unknown how much force is required to activate it. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gold Red has a force of 50 grams, while the Rose switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Red switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This would be beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Rose switch. This heavier bottom out force can provide a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Gold Red switch is lighter compared to the Rose, the exact actuation force of the Rose switch remains unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Rose switch is heavier, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. Depending on preferences, users can choose the lighter and potentially more comfortable Gold Red switch for longer typing sessions, or the heavier Rose switch for a more impactful and robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience. In the case of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 and low-pitched sound profile. This means that each press of the key will produce a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" sound. The Gold Red switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it strikes a balance between being too loud or soft. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch also has a low-pitched sound profile. It produces a mellow tone with a bass-heavy quality, similar to the Gold Red switch. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and environments. However, it's important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches provide a gentle and approachable feel, with a safe middle-ground between pronounced characteristics. The smoothness of the Gold Red switch enhances the overall typing experience, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches contributes to the sleek and refined feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Rose linear switch also offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, and the polished finish contributes to a sleek typing experience.
Taking into consideration all the available information, the TTC Gold Red and KTT Rose linear switches share several qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. They also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and settings. In terms of feel, both switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience, with a mild and polished quality. The smoothness and refined finish of these switches contribute to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Gold Red switch would be a great choice. It provides a snappy sound profile and a range of qualities such as mildness, silkiness, subtleness, and polish. If you prefer a uniquely substantial typing experience, the KTT Rose switch offers progressive springs that provide a satisfying feel. Additionally, the Rose switch produces a bassy raindrop sound when typing. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer excellent subjective qualities that will enhance your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light-medium level of resistance and a buttery smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is a great choice. These switches offer a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. The Gold Red also provides a mild and subtle typing feel, making it approachable and suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely substantial typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch is a fantastic option. These switches offer a bassy raindrop sound and a low-pitched tone, creating a mellow and immersive typing experience. They also provide a mild typing feel and a polished finish for a sleek and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your preferred resistance level, sound profile, and typing feel.
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