TTC Iron vs. KTT Pine

Overview

When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and KTT Pine linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics. The TTC Iron is renowned for its pronounced clacky sound signature, making each keystroke a satisfying auditory experience. It also boasts a light actuation and smooth travel, appealing to those who value precision and comfort during typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Pine offers a medium-heavy touch with a buttery smooth feel, designed to provide an effortless typing experience. Its factory-lubed finish minimizes friction, ensuring smooth key travel for a more enjoyable 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

TTC Iron Linear

KTT Pine Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The TTC Iron and KTT Pine both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Iron's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Pine's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the typing experience that the POM housing of the Iron may not provide.

Despite their differences, both the Iron and Pine utilize their housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience. The POM bottom housing of the Iron and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine both contribute to the sound profile and feel of bottoming out the keys. However, the impact of the top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key, with the POM top housing of the Iron creating a unique sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine. The choice between these two housing materials can greatly impact the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard.

In conclusion, while the Iron and Pine may have different housing materials, both offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience. The choice between POM and polycarbonate housing will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. Regardless of the housing material chosen, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for users, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the design of mechanical keyboards.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have some key differences. The Iron has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Pine's slightly heavier 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Iron is also lighter at 50 grams, while the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. The lighter forces of the Iron may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and easier typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Pine provide a more tactile and substantial typing feel, perfect for those who desire a more robust keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Iron offering a lighter touch and the Pine providing a heavier push.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we can see that the Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Pine has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Iron's travel distance is slightly shorter than the Pine's, which gives it a slight edge in terms of responsiveness. Gamers may prefer the Iron for its quicker response times. On the other hand, the Pine's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Pine being the more standard 4.0mm option. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for in their keyboard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and satisfying auditory feedback with every key press. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, delivering a deeper and richer tone during typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Iron being more clacky and percussive, while the Pine produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound profile.

Moving on to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during keystrokes and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience that feels seamless and effortless. Both switches excel in offering a comfortable typing feel, with the Iron leaning towards a more easy-to-press sensation and the Pine focusing on a buttery and creamy keystroke experience.

Taking all available information into account, the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch each have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Pine provides a bassy sound and buttery keystroke sensation. Both switches are suitable for enthusiasts and daily users seeking precision and comfort in their typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharp, clacky sound profile or a deeper, bassy tone, as well as whether you prefer a light and easy-to-press feel or a smooth and creamy keystroke. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your personal preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a light actuation force and a pronounced clacky sound for a swift and satisfying typing experience, the Iron switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth feel and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile for effortless typing, the Pine switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Iron Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

KTT Pine Linear

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn more