KTT Laurel vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Laurel and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Laurel is a linear switch, known for its medium-light weight and short travel distance. With its full POM housing and long pole design, it offers a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the Laurel switch produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, giving a precise and comfortable typing experience. Despite its medium tactility, these switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and TTC Silent Bluish White switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The Laurel features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The POM top housing of the Laurel may be preferred by individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White is ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct and clear sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Laurel uses a POM material that also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Meanwhile, the Silent Bluish White employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. The nylon material used in the Silent Bluish White absorbs more sound compared to the POM material of the Laurel, creating a duller sound effect. This makes the Silent Bluish White suitable for those seeking a softer and more muffled sound during typing.
In terms of functionality, the top housing primarily influences the sound produced when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the choice between the Laurel and Silent Bluish White housing materials depends on individual preferences regarding the sound profile. However, it is important to note that both switches offer unique and pleasing sounds, albeit with contrasting characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect a consistent amount of pressure required to fully press the keys.
However, in terms of actuation force, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The KTT Laurel linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Silent Bluish White switch requires a slightly lesser amount of force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Laurel switch.
Considering the importance of weight in switch selection, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Silent Bluish White switch more suitable for their needs due to its lighter actuation force. This can allow for longer typing sessions without causing excessive strain or fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Laurel switch, as its slightly heavier actuation force provides a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Ultimately, both switches offer a light bottom out force, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth. However, the slight variation in actuation force between the Laurel and Silent Bluish White switches allows users to choose between a slightly heavier or lighter typing feel based on their personal preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. However, the similarities end there, as the KTT Laurel is a linear switch while the TTC Silent Bluish White is a tactile switch. The KTT Laurel provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, whereas the TTC Silent Bluish White offers a more tactile experience with a slight bump when the switch is actuated. So, while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the overall typing experience will be different based on the type of switch chosen.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch is best known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is described as producing a muted sound. A muted mechanical keyboard switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, thereby minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, which means it is super responsive. This responsiveness is often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the typing experience and making it feel more alive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is described as offering a buttery feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Silent Bluish White switch is also described as mild, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. It also has a subtle and polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Laurel switch has a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, making it responsive and comfortable to use. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a muted sound and a buttery feel, providing a precise, comfortable, and quiet typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a low-pitched sound and snappy feel, the Laurel switch is the way to go. If you prefer a quieter, more subdued sound and a buttery, smooth feel, the Silent Bluish White switch is a great choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch that offers responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel is a great choice. With its full POM housing and short travel, it provides a balanced typing experience. The Laurel also has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which can be pleasing to the ears.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a satisfying level of resistance, the TTC Silent Bluish White is worth considering. These switches offer a "medium tactile" feel, giving you a precise and comfortable typing experience. Despite their tactility, they are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them suitable for office or shared living spaces.
In terms of sound, the Laurel has a low-pitched sound profile, which is characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White has a muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches.
In terms of feel, the Laurel is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is also characterized as mild, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Additionally, it can be described as stepped, as it provides a tactile experience with two stages of pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Silent Bluish White also has a subtle and polished feel, with gentle resistance and a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a linear switch with a light feel and low-pitched sound, the KTT Laurel is the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium tactile feel and a more muted sound, the TTC Silent Bluish White is the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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