KTT Laurel vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Laurel and the TTC Silent Frozen switches. The KTT Laurel is a medium-light linear switch, renowned for its responsive yet comfortable typing experience. With a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, this switch strikes a perfect balance in terms of feel and performance. Additionally, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which can be appealing for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. These switches are not only super smooth but also provide a pillowy feel while typing. The Silent Frozen switches are categorized by several descriptors such as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished. Both switches have their own unique advantages, making it important to delve deeper into their specifics to determine which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and TTC Silent Frozen switches differ in their choice of housing materials, with the Laurel featuring a POM (polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housing, while the Silent Frozen opts for a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. One distinct contrast between these materials is their effect on sound profiles. The POM housing of the Laurel produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound, creating a pleasing and unique acoustic experience. In comparison, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. This distinction in sound can be attributed to the differing properties and characteristics of POM and polycarbonate plastics.
Another notable difference between these two housing materials lies in their aesthetic features. While the POM housing of the Laurel does not possess any inherent translucency, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen is transparent. This transparency makes it particularly suitable for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can pass through the housing material. Therefore, if RGB lighting is a desired feature, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen would be a more suitable choice.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that both the Laurel's POM housing and the Silent Frozen's polycarbonate housing contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Although the materials may vary, both POM and polycarbonate provide unique acoustic properties, allowing for a pleasant and distinct typing sound. Thus, users can expect satisfying results from both switches, but with varying tonal characteristics depending on the chosen materials for each housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer a light typing experience. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Frozen has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. These forces indicate that both switches require a relatively light touch to trigger keystrokes and reach the bottom of the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out regardless of the switch they choose. The lighter weight of these switches makes them suitable for extended typing sessions, such as for work or gaming purposes. However, if one prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they might opt for switches with heavier forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other; they offer the identical 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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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, the KTT Laurel switch stands out with its subtly low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. It also has a low-pitched and muted sound, meaning it minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel switch is known for being snappy and super responsive. This is due to the longer or dual-staged springs present in the switch, which make the typing experience feel more alive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch offers a creamy and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to the lubricant applied at the factory and specific materials used, resulting in a smooth and seamless keystroke sensation. It is also worth mentioning that the Silent Frozen switch is described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch has a subtle and polished feel, providing a gentle resistance and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel linear switch is best known for its medium-light weight and full POM housing, offering a balance of responsiveness and comfort. It produces a subtly low-pitched sound and provides a snappy feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is characterized by an extremely quiet sound profile, being super smooth and feathery in feel. It offers a thocky sound, silky and buttery typing experience, and has a polished finish. While the two switches have their own unique characteristics, they both provide pleasant sound and smooth typing experiences, making them suitable options for different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a medium-light linear switch with a balanced combination of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel switch is the ideal choice for you. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, it offers a snappy feel and a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if silence is your top priority, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is the way to go. These switches are characterized by an extremely quiet sound profile, along with a creamy, buttery feel, and a pillowy type sensation. They produce a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound when pressed or released. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred sound and feel, as well as whether silence or responsiveness is more important to you. Consider these factors carefully to choose the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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