KTT Laurel vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Laurel and the TTC Speed Silver are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Laurel, known for its medium-light weighting and linear design, strikes a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Laurel has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is tailored for those who prioritize speed and precision. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation, leading to a fast and precise typing experience. The Speed Silver also boasts a pristine sound profile. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver differ in their housing materials, with the Laurel featuring POM (polyoxymethylene) housings and the Speed Silver utilizing polycarbonate and nylon housings. In terms of sound profile, the POM top and bottom housings of the Laurel create a deep, muted sound, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more distinct and pronounced sound when typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
While both the Laurel's POM bottom housing and the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, there are notable differences. The nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel adds to the deep and muted sound, but with a slightly different quality. The combination of POM and nylon provides distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on where the pressure is applied. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced, influencing the sound and feel upon bottom-out. On the other hand, the top housing has a stronger influence on the sound when a key is released. In this aspect, the Laurel's POM top housing and the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing exhibit contrasting characteristics, with POM producing a relatively more muted sound upon key release, while polycarbonate adds a sharper and resonant quality to the sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, the Laurel is lighter than the Speed Silver. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the Laurel requires a slightly lighter force for bottoming out compared to the Speed Silver, providing a slightly more responsive and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, the Laurel provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience, while the Speed Silver offers a slightly heavier and more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in keyboards nowadays. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Speed Silver may be the better option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, some individuals might find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. In this case, the Laurel with its slightly longer travel distance would be the more suitable choice. Overall, while there is a slight difference in travel distance between these two switches, the results and overall experience will be quite similar.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 linear switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches tend to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use these switches at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
As for feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy. This means that it is super responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. Typing on these switches will feel more alive and dynamic. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it provides a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the polished finish of the Speed Silver switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek and refined feel.
Overall, the KTT Laurel and TTC Speed Silver linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Laurel switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound and a snappy feel, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more responsive and bass-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. It is suitable for users who value a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance and effortless actuation. If you're looking for a similar result in terms of sound or feel, you can expect comparable qualities from these switches based on the information provided. However, it's important to consider other factors such as personal preference, keyboard setup, and keycaps when making a decision.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch, the KTT Laurel would be a great choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a comfortable typing experience. The Laurel's full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design provide a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which may be appealing to those who prefer a more mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver would be a suitable option. It has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. These switches have a reduced travel distance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver also offers a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Laurel and the TTC Speed Silver depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize comfort and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a faster and more precise typing experience with a polished feel, the Speed Silver would be the recommended option. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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