TKC Kiwi vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Peach. The TKC Kiwi switches are tactile switches that aim to optimize your typing experience with a noticeable bump at the top of each key press. The switches deliver a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, immersing you into your typing sessions. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the KTT Peach switches are linear switches that offer various sought-after characteristics. With the Peach switches, you can expect a syrupy smooth typing experience accompanied by a deep, thocky sound profile. It is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Both switches have their own distinct advantages, providing unique sensations depending on personal preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Peach switches have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Starting with the top housing, the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE, a newer material that offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the Peach's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. However, both materials are known for their translucent properties, making them suitable for integration with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kiwi employs the same UHWMPE material as its top housing. As a result, it produces a similar bright sound signature and resonant clacks as the top housing does. Conversely, the Peach utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing materials leads to variations in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of these switches differ, they share some similarities in their sound profiles. Both UHWMPE and polycarbonate produce resonant sounds that enhance typing feedback. Similarly, both nylon and UHWMPE create unique sound characteristics, albeit with different tonal qualities. Ultimately, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing material primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the TKC Kiwi and KTT Peach switches offer divergent auditory experiences due to the distinct qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kiwi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Peach requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams, compared to the Peach's 53 grams. This means that the Kiwi provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Peach offers a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Peach more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push when typing may prefer the Kiwi with its heavier forces. Although both switches offer unique characteristics, it is important to consider individual preferences and how these forces align with one's typing style.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the KTT Peach comes in at $2.91.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch is best known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, which enhances the typing experience. These switches also have a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that creates an immersive typing experience. Additionally, they come lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box.
On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch is known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. While the exact sound qualities of both the Kiwi and Peach switches are not described in detail, they are both described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means they will typically feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
When it comes to the feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactility. It provides a medium level of tactile feedback without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. The Kiwi switch is also polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the KTT Peach switch is described as mild. This means it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. While the specific details about its feel are not mentioned, it can be inferred that the Peach switch provides a comfortable and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and KTT Peach linear switch have different qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Kiwi switch offers a medium-strong bump and snappy sound profile, while the Peach switch provides a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and are suitable for various typing purposes. While more detailed information on sound and feel would be beneficial, based on the given information, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a satisfying keypress experience and medium to medium-strong bump, the TKC Kiwi would be a great choice for you. These switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Additionally, the Kiwi has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Its stepped, accented, and polished feel provides a tactile experience without being overwhelming or scratchy, resulting in a sleek and refined typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach would be the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a medium-light feel, allowing for a more gentle typing experience. Similar to the Kiwi, the Peach also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different usage scenarios.
Ultimately, the choice between TKC Kiwi and KTT Peach depends on your preference for the level of tactile feedback and bottom out force. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and prefer a slightly heavier switch, the Kiwi would be the suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and gentler typing experience with a linear switch, the Peach would be the better option. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired typing feel to make an informed decision.
Mentioned in this article
