TKC Kiwi vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Kiwi and the KTT Laurel are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features to enhance your typing experience. The Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. These switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Laurel is a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, offering short travel and a long pole design. This switch strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort, while also providing a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can accurately assess and decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Laurel differ in terms of sound signature and overall feel. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. This material is known for offering a vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the Laurel's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique and pleasing sound qualities, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing tends to produce a brighter and more resonant sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Kiwi and Laurel also exhibit different characteristics. The Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to the overall bright sound signature of the switch, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel leads to a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. This difference in sound can significantly impact the typing experience, depending on the user's preference.
It is worth noting that when a switch has different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Kiwi and Laurel may have different housing materials for the top and bottom, the overall result will still provide a distinct and enjoyable typing experience, catering to various sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, their actuation forces are the same, both requiring 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ. The Kiwi has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Laurel has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it in the light category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel switch would be the more suitable option. With its lower bottom out force, it allows for a smoother and easier keystroke, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Kiwi switch. Its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push, leading to a more pronounced tactile experience while typing.
Considering weight is crucial when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience can benefit from the Laurel switch, enabling them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. Conversely, individuals who value a more substantial typing feedback may gravitate towards the heavier Kiwi switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have different travel distances. The Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Kiwi's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a standard feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Laurel's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which is preferred by gamers for its faster response times. If you value a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Laurel may be appealing. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the longer travel distance of the Kiwi would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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, both the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Laurel switches have a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches tend to have a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps used. So, while the Kiwi and Laurel switches share a low-pitched sound, the specific sound experience may vary depending on these other variables.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience. Stepped switches have two stages of tactile feedback, with a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. They provide a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The switch's factory lubing further reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy. This indicates that the switch is super responsive, likely due to longer or dual-staged springs. While the Laurel switch is a linear switch and lacks the tactile feedback of the Kiwi, its snappy nature makes the typing experience feel lively and quick.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi and KTT Laurel switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi provides a low-pitched sound profile and a stepped, accented, and polished tactile experience. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a subtly low-pitched sound and a snappy linear feel. Whether you prefer a tactile switch with a satisfying bump or a quick and responsive linear switch, both options cater to distinct typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, then the TKC Kiwi would be the ideal choice for you. The Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a stepped and accented feel, as well as a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Kiwi would be a great option.
On the other hand, if you are more interested in a medium-light linear switch that strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort, then the KTT Laurel is the switch for you. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, offering a more mellow tone. Moreover, if you prioritize a snappy typing experience with super responsive keys, the Laurel switch with its snappy feel would be a great fit.
Ultimately, the decision between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the bottom-out force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and desired experience. Whether you prioritize a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bump and polished feel, or a linear switch with a light bottom-out force and snappy feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. In the end, it is important to choose the switch that provides the most comfort and enjoyment for your individual typing needs.
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