TTC Iron vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch stand out as popular options with unique characteristics. The TTC Iron is renowned for its clacky sound signature and light actuation, offering a satisfying typing experience that is both swift and fatigue-free. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum provides a hefty feel without a pronounced tactile bump, making it a distinct choice for those looking for a different tactile experience. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the Plum stands out with its unique weightiness. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Kailh Plum, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Iron utilizes POM, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Plum's polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, with POM providing a more subdued sound while polycarbonate offers a more vibrant and clear sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Iron features POM, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Plum utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. This variation in materials showcases how different housing components can affect the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
While the housing materials of the Iron and Plum switches differ, both switches excel in providing unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience for users. Whether it's the POM top housing of the Iron or the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum, both materials offer distinct qualities that can cater to different preferences. Additionally, the choice of nylon for the Plum's bottom housing and POM for the Iron's bottom housing further highlights the versatility and customization options available in mechanical keyboard switches, allowing users to fine-tune their typing experience based on their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Iron requires a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. Additionally, the Iron has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams in comparison to the Plum's heavier 70 grams. This means that the Iron switch would provide a more effortless typing experience with a lighter touch, while the Plum switch would offer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches have their own advantages depending on the user's preference, with the Iron being lighter and the Plum being heavier for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches would ultimately depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers seeking quick response times. The Iron switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Plum switch, but the difference is negligible. Ultimately, both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results when using either one.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a clacky and sharp sound that resonates with each press, providing an audible satisfaction to typists. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch produces a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing environments. Ultimately, both switches offer pleasant sound experiences, albeit with different characteristics.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, its mild feel falls into a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users. Conversely, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique tactile experience with a moderate weightiness but lacks a pronounced tactile bump, creating a distinctive typing feel that may suit individuals seeking a different tactile sensation. Overall, both switches provide comfortable typing experiences, each with its own nuances.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron switch excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Plum switch stands out for its unique tactility and weightiness. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will still get satisfying results based on their individual tastes in typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a clacky sound with each keystroke, the TTC Iron switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force with a unique tactile feel and a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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