TTC Honey vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to suit different preferences and typing styles. Two popular choices among enthusiasts are the TTC Honey and the KTT Kang White linear switches. The Honey is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it boasts a deep and pleasant sound profile, adding an element of auditory pleasure to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kang White is revered for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, delivering a dazzling typing sound. The self-lubricating material used in these switches ensures an unparalleled smoothness when typing. Categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Honey offers a refined and luxurious typing experience. In contrast, the Kang White is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', indicating its more balanced and versatile nature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide which switch suits your personal preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and KTT Kang White switches differ in terms of their bottom housing. The Honey utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Kang White employs a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material of the Honey switch contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant sound experience. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Kang White switch offers a different typing experience, generating a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Moreover, the top housing of both the Honey and Kang White switches is composed of polycarbonate. This material choice brings similar qualities to both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. This is a result of polycarbonate's stiffness as a plastic material, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting if desired by the user. Thus, in terms of sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results from the top housing of both switches.
The distinction between the two switches lies in the choice of bottom housing material. The Honey switch's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, known as the bottom-out experience. Its stiffness likely enhances the impact and response during typing sessions. Conversely, the Kang White switch's nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel differently. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a smoother and less impactful bottom-out experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's preference for a sharper and clearer sound (Honey) or a deeper and fuller sound (Kang White) during typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Honey offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Kang White switch provides a slightly heavier feel with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Honey switch requires a gentler touch to trigger a keystroke, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter and more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White switch offers a bit more resistance, allowing for a more substantial typing experience. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more pronounced keystroke, the Kang White switch would be the preferred choice. It's worth noting that while the forces differ between the two switches, they deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out, catering to varying preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on whether the user desires a lighter or heavier touch for their typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, we can see that the Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Honey is slightly shorter than the Kang White. In terms of responsiveness, gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize quick feedback, the Honey switch may be the better option for you. However, it's important to note that some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress, the Kang White switch with its longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preference for travel distance and how you want the keypress to feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 Honey linear switch is best described as having a subdued sound profile. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent, but offers a more subtle and mellow sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it features a bass-heavy and mellow tone, giving it a more relaxed and pleasant typing sound. It is also described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level suitable for various environments and purposes. However, it should be noted that the sound of the switches also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience. This is achieved through the application of lubricant at the factory and specific materials used, resulting in a silky and buttery sensation. The switch is described as frictionless and buttery, meaning it offers minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys, resulting in an effortless and uniform typing experience. It is also described as subtle and polished, indicating a gentle resistance, reduced friction, and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Honey linear switch is highlighted for its smooth and creamy feel, as well as its deep and pleasant sound profile. It offers a luxurious typing experience with minimal resistance and reduced friction, resulting in effortless and uniform keystrokes. The KTT Kang White linear switch, though lacking specific information on feel, is known for its dazzling typing sound and self-lubricating material, which likely contributes to a smooth typing experience. While the subjective qualities of both switches may differ, it is likely that they will provide similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and a smooth and creamy typing experience, the TTC Honey linear switch is an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a light 50-gram bottom out force, providing a comfortable typing experience. Moreover, the Honey switches are known for their smooth and buttery feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. In terms of sound, the Honey switches produce a subdued and more subtle sound signature, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, the Kang White offers a slightly more tactile typing experience. The self-lubricating material of these switches also adds to their unparalleled smoothness. In terms of sound, the Kang White switches have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and are suitable for different preferences. Ultimately, you should consider your typing style and desired experience before making a decision.