TKC Kiwi vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth comparing and contrasting are the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Wine Red. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch that aims to enhance your typing experience with its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. This switch also boasts a snappy sound profile, providing an immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwis come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches offer a different experience. These linear switches offer a pillowy light type feel and produce a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. Categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched', the Wine Reds offer a distinct sensation and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and KTT Wine Red differ in terms of their housing materials. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, while the Wine Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Wine Red creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Kiwi incorporates UHWMPE while the Wine Red uses polycarbonate. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to its bright sound signature and resonant clacks. On the other hand, the relatively stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the TKC Kiwi and KTT Wine Red have different housing materials, they both provide a resonant sound profile. The Kiwi with its UHWMPE housing offers bright and clacky sounds, whereas the Wine Red with its polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, in terms of key release sound, the top housing material plays a more crucial role. In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in either the top or bottom housing allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite these differences, both switches provide satisfying auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Wine Red is slightly higher at 44 grams. Both switches have a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Kiwi is on the heavier side with 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Wine Red has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, which can be more suitable for individuals who prefer a gentler typing experience.
Considering weight is an essential factor when choosing switches, as it impacts the overall typing experience. Those who favor a lighter switch, either for ergonomic reasons or extended use, may find the Kiwi or Wine Red to be good options. However, if a stronger push feel is desired, the Kiwi with its higher bottom out force would be a better choice.
In summary, while both switches have similar actuation forces, the TKC Kiwi stands out for its heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. The KTT Wine Red, on the other hand, has a lighter bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer the same tactile experience and feedback to the user. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Kiwi or Wine Red, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. In essence, these switches provide a consistent and satisfactory typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 TKC Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is characterized by a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. This provides a satisfying and immersive typing experience, especially for those who prefer a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch also offers a low-pitched sound profile, similar to the Kiwi switch. Both switches provide a satisfying depth to the sound, making them suitable for users who enjoy a more bass-heavy tone. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience. These switches have a mild tactility, with a noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. The tactile bump is prominent, providing a satisfying and pleasant typing experience without being overwhelming. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch does not have any specific descriptions regarding its feel. Therefore, it is unknown how the switch feels during typing.
Overall, the TKC Kiwi switch is known for its medium to medium-strong tactile bump, snappy sound profile, smooth factory lubing, and polished finish. It offers a stepped and accented tactile experience, providing a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch is known for its pillowy light type feel and deep, rich sound profile. While the feel of the Wine Red switch is not specified, it still offers a unique typing feel. Both switches have their own subjective qualities that enhance the typing experience, and depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it ultimately boils down to personal preferences and typing style.
If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump in your switches, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switch is a great option for you. The Kiwi switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, giving you a more mild bump compared to hypertactile switches. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Sound-wise, the Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and user levels.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience, the Wine Red switch may be more suitable for you. The Wine Red switch is known for its pillowy light type feel, providing a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. While we don't have specific descriptions for its feel characteristics, the absence of descriptors suggests a smoother and less tactile typing experience compared to the Kiwi switch.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on the level of tactile feedback and sound profile you prefer in a switch. Both the Kiwi and Wine Red switches have their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Consider your typing style and preferences to choose the switch that best suits your needs. In the end, whether you go for the tactile Kiwi or the linear Wine Red, both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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