KTT Kang White vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Kang White and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. On one hand, the Kang White stands out for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, accompanied by a dazzling typing sound. Furthermore, the switch's self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness while typing. Conversely, the Speed Silver is renowned for its fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and boast a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. While these general qualities may pique your interest, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and TTC Speed Silver switches have several similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kang White switch features a nylon material, while the Speed Silver switch also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar depth and fullness in sound due to their nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. So even though the top and bottom housing materials may be different, users can still expect a balanced combination of both materials' characteristics when using these switches.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, they differ slightly. The Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter or medium-light.
Considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter option as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This would make the TTC Speed Silver a more suitable choice in such cases. However, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier bottom out force. In this scenario, the KTT Kang White would be the better option. Both switches provide a medium actuation force, ensuring similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on the individual's personal preference for the bottom out force - with the Kang White being slightly heavier and the Speed Silver being slightly lighter.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Kang White falls into the realm of a more traditional distance, while the 3.4mm travel distance of the Speed Silver leans towards the shallower end. The popularity of shorter travel distances has been increasing, particularly amongst gamers who value quicker response times. If this is important to you, then the shorter travel distance of the Speed Silver may be more fitting. However, for individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation, the longer travel distance of the Kang White may be preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes a faster response or a more substantial key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The Kang White linear switch is best known for its dazzling, low-pitched sound. This switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. The self-lubricating material of the Kang White provides unparalleled smoothness when typing on them, enhancing the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is best known for its fast and precise typing experience. These switches have a neutral sound profile, just like the Kang White, making them suitable for various use cases. With a reduced travel distance, the Speed Silvers allow for quick and effortless actuation. However, the subjective qualities of the sound of the Speed Silver switch are not explicitly described, indicating that the sound may not be a highlight of this switch.
In terms of feel, the Kang White switch does not have any specific descriptions provided. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kang White and Speed Silver switches offer different subjective qualities. The Kang White excels in sound with its dazzling, low-pitched tone, while the Speed Silver focuses more on a fast and precise typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most users. However, there is no specific information provided regarding the feel of the Kang White switch, whereas the Speed Silver offers a mild and polished typing experience. For those looking for a smooth and refined typing experience, the Speed Silver switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if a satisfying low-pitched sound is desired, the Kang White switch would be the preferred option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a poppy and dazzling typing sound, along with unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. Both switches have a moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, if you prefer a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Speed Silver would be the better option. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you're looking for. In the end, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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