TKC Kiwi vs. Gateron Type A

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TKC Kiwi and the Gateron Type A offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfying typing experience with a snappy sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Type A is a linear switch that reimagines traditional travel distances with a deeper sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a medium-weight switch. While the Kiwi is lightly factory lubed for a smooth typing experience, the Type A boasts the latest in factory lubing techniques for enhanced performance. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

TKC Kiwi Tactile

Gateron Type A Linear

$8.00 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The TKC Kiwi and Gateron Type A both use different housing materials for their switches, with the Kiwi featuring a UHWMPE top and bottom housing, while the Type A uses nylon for both. The UHWMPE material in the Kiwi switch housing offers a bright and resonant sound signature, giving typists a satisfying clack when typing. In contrast, the nylon housing of the Type A switch produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound when typing.

While both the Kiwi and Type A switches have differences in their housing materials, they both share the characteristic of providing a unique sound signature that enhances the typing experience. The UHWMPE material in the Kiwi switch housing contributes to the bright and resonant clacks when typing, while the nylon material in the Type A switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the variations in sound characteristics, both switches are designed to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.

In terms of construction, the housing materials of the Kiwi and Type A switches play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi switch contributes to its bright and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Type A switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding the effects of different housing materials on switch performance can help users choose the right switch for their specific typing preferences.

Weight

The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi requires 67 grams while the Type A only needs 55 grams. This makes the Type A switch a lighter overall option in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. The lighter force of the Type A switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier force of the Kiwi switch could be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the force requirements of both switches cater to different preferences, providing users with options based on their typing preferences and needs.

Travel distance

Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The 4 mm travel distance is considered to be on the shorter side compared to other switches, providing a quick and responsive typing experience. Despite having the same travel distance, the Kiwi switch offers a tactile bump when actuated, providing feedback to the typist, while the Type A switch has a smoother linear feel with no tactile bump. In conclusion, while both switches share the same travel distance, they offer different typing experiences due to their tactile or linear characteristics.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened sound when pressed for a quieter typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and regardless of whether you are typing at home or in a professional setting. It's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a stepped and accented typing experience, offering a two-stage tactile feel that is not overwhelming but still provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point. The switches are also polished, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke with reduced friction for an enjoyable typing session. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not provided. However, based on the description of the tactile bump on the Kiwi switch, it can be inferred that the Type A linear switch may lack a tactile bump and provide a more consistent keystroke without the added tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer different sound profiles and tactile feels for users to choose from based on their preferences. The Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound with a medium-strong tactile bump, while the Type A switch offers a more subdued sound with a linear keystroke. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a noticeable bump or a linear keystroke without tactile feedback.

Conclusion

Finally, in closing, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch. If you prefer a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a snappy sound profile and a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Kiwi may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight linear switch with a deeper sound profile and a lighter bottom out force, the Type A could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience. So, consider these factors carefully and choose the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type A Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more