TTC Gold Silver vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Strawberry both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, providing a satisfying bottom-out with each keypress. Its resonant sound signature adds to the tactile experience, making it a popular choice for those who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the Strawberry stands out for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With its attractive pink and clear housings, this switch offers a buttery and frictionless 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and KTT Strawberry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting, making these switches aesthetically pleasing. However, the Gold Silver has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Strawberry both utilize polycarbonate top housings for similar sound characteristics. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, with a higher-pitched sound compared to softer plastics. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a more round and dull sound due to its sound-absorbing properties.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Strawberry affects the sound profile and feel of the switches differently. The split between top and bottom housing materials results in distinct characteristics for each switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, the Gold Silver has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Strawberry is significantly heavier at 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown. This means that the Strawberry switch offers a lighter typing experience when it comes to actuation force but requires a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Gold Silver switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Strawberry for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing weight and feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Silver has the shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry. A difference of 0.5 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Gold Silver switch, while those who prefer a more substantial and deeper key press may opt for the Strawberry switch. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Gold Silver being slightly on the shorter end and the Strawberry being more traditional. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for key feel and actuation.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
When comparing the sound of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, the Gold Silver is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. This results in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which provides a more mellow tone during typing. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience, with the Gold Silver possibly having a slightly more varied sound profile due to its additional descriptors.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and refined finish, minimal resistance during keystrokes, and a gentle typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches provide a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, but the Gold Silver may have a slightly lighter and gentler typing feel compared to the Strawberry switch.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Silver may provide a slightly more varied sound profile and a gentler typing experience, the Strawberry switch excels in being frictionless and offering a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference based on sound preferences, typing feel, and the overall typing experience desired by the user. With either switch, you can expect a high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you should consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize swift and precise keystrokes with a resonant sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. The Gold Silver's shortened travel and smooth actuation offer a satisfying and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth and frictionless feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch could be more suitable. The Strawberry's attractive design, comfortable actuation, and reliable performance make it a great option for those seeking a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing speed, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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