TTC Gold Silver vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Mint mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, providing a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. With a smooth journey from press to bottoming out, this switch excels in speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is praised for its satisfyingly smooth linear feel, offering a poppy thockiness and light typing experience. While the Gold Silver is characterized by a resonant and polished sound, the Mint is known for its low-pitched and neutral profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Mint utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate creating a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Gold Silver and Mint both benefit from the unique qualities of their housing materials to produce distinct typing experiences.
While both the Gold Silver and Mint switches share similarities in their housing materials, they also have differences that affect the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gold Silver splits the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. This results in a mix of sharpness and fullness in sound when pressing down on the switch, with the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. Conversely, the Mint's consistent use of both polycarbonate for the top and bottom housing leads to a more uniform sound experience while typing, as the qualities of each material are present throughout.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing feel of mechanical switches like the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Mint. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, the Gold Silver stands out with its nylon bottom housing, creating a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound. On the other hand, the Mint's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing results in a more consistent typing experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help enthusiasts make informed choices when customizing their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Gold Silver switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Mint switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered to be medium-light. This means that the Mint switch requires slightly more force to fully press down compared to the Gold Silver switch. In terms of weight, the Mint switch can be considered the lighter option, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Gold Silver switch may appeal to individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mint switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance like the Gold Silver's 3.5 mm is preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times, while a longer travel distance like the Mint's 4 mm may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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 Silver linear switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound experience with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch also offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches offer a pleasing sound signature that enhances the typing experience, with slight differences in their specific tones.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is characterized by its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing feel. The switch's smooth and refined finish, combined with a gentle resistance and minimal sound signature, creates a sleek and pleasant typing experience. Similarly, the KTT Mint switch offers a mild and polished typing feel, providing a gentle and approachable experience for users. Both switches prioritize smooth key travel and reduced friction, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users of all levels.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Mint linear switches may differ slightly in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness, neutrality, and user comfort. Whether you choose the Gold Silver for its rapid responsiveness and resonant sound or the Mint for its satisfyingly smooth feel and poppy thockiness, you can expect similar levels of performance and satisfaction from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a light and satisfying typing feel, the KTT Mint could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Take your time to test out both switches and see which one feels right for you.
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