TTC Iron vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron and KTT Mint mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron stands out for its pronounced clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each press. Its light actuation and smooth travel make it ideal for those seeking precision and pleasure in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Mint is known for its smooth and poppy thockiness, thanks to its long pole stem. With a light and fleeting type feel, it offers a different typing experience compared to the TTC Iron. 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
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Iron's POM top housing and bottom housing both contribute to creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. In contrast, the KTT Mint's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material composition between the two switches results in distinct audio experiences for users. While the Iron offers a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke, the Mint provides a nuanced sound experience with varying tones depending on whether the key is being pressed or released.
In terms of aesthetics, the Iron's POM top and bottom housing materials provide a sleek and uniform appearance with their consistent sound profile. On the other hand, the Mint's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual flair to the switch. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Mint offers a classic look that complements the overall design of the switch. While both switches prioritize functionality and performance, their housing materials cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and design.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Iron and KTT Mint housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound experience. The POM housing of the Iron offers a consistent and muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials of the Mint provide a more dynamic and resonant audio experience. Whether you prioritize a sleek design with uniform sound or a switch that allows for RGB lighting and deeper tones, both options offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, it is evident that the Iron switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Mint switch's 45 grams. The Iron switch also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mint switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Iron switch provides a lighter and more responsive typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable options for different preferences in typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Iron switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mint switch, which may appeal to those looking for a faster response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Iron switch. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press with a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more modern and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
The TTC Iron linear switch is known for its distinctive clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, creating a more bass-heavy sound compared to the Iron. Both switches fall into the category of neutral sound profiles, making them versatile options suitable for various environments and user preferences.
When it comes to the typing feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the KTT Mint switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, with a polished finish ensuring smooth and refined key travel. Both switches deliver a satisfying tactile response, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its pronounced clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a compelling choice for users seeking precision and pleasure in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a unique poppy thockiness sound and a light, fleeting typing feel, appealing to those looking for a smooth and refined typing experience. While each switch has its own subjective qualities, both switches provide a level of performance and satisfaction that will result in a rewarding typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the following: choose the TTC Iron if you prefer a light actuation force, pronounced clacky sound, and buttery smooth travel for swift and pleasurable typing sessions. On the other hand, opt for the KTT Mint if you enjoy a medium-light actuation force, satisfyingly smooth linear feel with a poppy thockiness, and a low-pitched sound profile for a mellow typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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