Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Pine both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches and prefer a more neutral and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth feel and a factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for effortless typing. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a bassy, creamy, and low-pitched 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Pine feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Keygeek Raw uses a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, while the Pine boasts a polycarbonate top housing. The Nylon & UPE blend is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches, offering a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound. While both materials are durable and provide a solid structure for the switches, they offer slightly different auditory experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend, while the Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing. The UMPE & Si blend is another exclusive material to Keygeek Raw switches, providing a unique feel and sound to the switches. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Pine contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Both materials are relatively stiff plastics, resulting in a more solid and impactful typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw and KTT Pine have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they both offer high-quality sound profiles and durability. The exclusive blends used in the Keygeek Raw switches provide a unique typing experience, while the polycarbonate materials in the Pine offer a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users may prefer one over the other. However, both switches are built with quality materials that ensure a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Keygeek Raw has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Keygeek Raw at 57.5 grams and the Pine at 58 grams. This means that while the Keygeek Raw may provide a lighter touch for typing, the Pine offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel, with the Keygeek Raw being lighter and the Pine being slightly heavier in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Pine linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the KTT Pine may provide a more satisfying and deep key press for those who prefer it. Both switches offer different experiences based on their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences. Overall, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Pine linear switch, providing a different typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. It's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a slightly textured feel that may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. The switch is also described as mild and subtle, offering a gentle resistance and a light typing feel. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The factory-lubed finish of the Pine switch contributes to its seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, when comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, users can expect different sound profiles and typing feels. The Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral sound and a slightly textured feel, making it a versatile option for various preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch provides a bassy sound and a buttery, creamy typing experience, enhancing the typing sensation for those who prefer a smoother feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preferences for material blend, lubrication, sound profile, and typing feel. If you value a unique material blend with a slightly textured feel and prefer to hand-lube your switches, the Keygeek Raw may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a factory-lubed switch with a smooth key travel and a buttery typing experience, the KTT Pine switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and typing style.
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