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TTC Gold Silver vs. KTT Matcha

An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference. The Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes, delivering a satisfying sense of closure with each press. On the other hand, the Matcha provides a comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a clean bottom-out sound. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Matcha offers a tactile experience with a noticeable feedback. 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

45g

Actuation force

40g

Bottom-out force

N/A

Bottom-out force

45g

Pre-travel

1.40 mm

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

NPI

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

18mm spring

Spring

Gold-plated spring

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches designed for RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through effectively. However, the Gold Silver differs from the Matcha in the bottom housing material, with the Gold Silver utilizing nylon. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively.

The difference in bottom housing material between the Gold Silver and the Matcha results in a variation in sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Silver contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switch, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha maintains a sharper, higher-pitched sound, complementing the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing. This highlights how the choice of materials for the top and bottom housing can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch.

Overall, while both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials showcases the importance of considering how each housing material contributes to the sound profile and feel of a switch. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing, demonstrating how variations in material choices can result in unique characteristics. However, the similarities in the top housing materials ensure that both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile suitable for RGB lighting setups.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is clear that the Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gold Silver's 45 grams. This means that the Matcha requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Matcha is 45 grams, while the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This suggests that the Matcha provides a consistent typing experience throughout the keystroke, with a light actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force. In contrast, the Gold Silver's bottom out force remains a mystery, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of typing feedback. Ultimately, the Gold Silver may offer a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Matcha, but without information on the bottom out force, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha may be the preferred choice, while those seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the Gold Silver (assuming its bottom out force is within their desired range).

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Matcha tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Gold Silver may be preferred by gamers for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Matcha with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and hearty depth to the keystrokes for those who prefer a more pronounced feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.

The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.

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 Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch offers a clacky sound, producing sharp and snappy noises when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Silver emphasizing a deeper tone and the Matcha delivering a crisp and percussive sound.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and reduced friction. In comparison, the KTT Matcha switch is characterized as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, providing a tactile typing experience with a two-stage bump sensation and responsive feedback. While the Gold Silver focuses on a sleek and polished feel, the Matcha offers a more dynamic and tactile typing feel that suits users who prefer a more pronounced tactility.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound accompanied by a polished and silky typing experience, while the Matcha stands out with its clacky sound and stepped, snappy feel with accentuated tactility. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Gold Silver emphasizing smoothness and fluidity, and the Matcha prioritizing tactility and responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, but rest assured, both switches offer exceptional qualities that can elevate your typing experience.

Conclusion

Therefore, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed, fluidity, and a resonant sound profile in your keystrokes, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a comfortable, snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as you type. So, explore the characteristics of each switch and choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

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