KTT Laurel vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and the TTC Yunhai stand out as excellent linear options, each appealing to different preferences among typists. The KTT Laurel is celebrated for its medium-light actuation force, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort that many users seek. Its full POM housing, short travel distance, and long pole design contribute to a snappy yet low-pitched sound profile, allowing for a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch boasts an incredibly light actuation force and is designed for those who prefer an effortlessly smooth keystroke. Its deep, rounded sound profile adds a unique auditory element that can enhance the typing experience, making it an attractive option for users who appreciate softer feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the KTT Laurel's balanced responsiveness and the gentle ease of the TTC Yunhai hinges on personal preference; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right 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
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the TTC Yunhai switches, we find that both utilize materials that promote a deeper and more muted sound profile while also offering distinct acoustic characteristics. The KTT Laurel's top housing is crafted from POM (Polyoxymethylene), a material recognized for creating a unique auditory experience due to its stiffness. This contributes to a sound that is deep yet relatively muted, which allows for a satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the Yunhai's top housing is made from nylon, a classic choice among switch manufacturers. Although nylon is a softer material that promotes a fuller sound profile, it also absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and more dulled auditory output. This essential difference in material leads to subtle variations in sound perception, despite both aiming for a deeper aural experience.
Turning to the bottom housings, the Laurel again uses POM, while the Yunhai features nylon. This distinction is crucial because the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The KTT Laurel's POM bottom housing echoes the same qualities as its top housing, creating a consistent sound profile that is cohesive and pleasing yet more pronounced due to the rigidity of POM. Meanwhile, the Yunhai's nylon bottom housing likely allows for a softer bottom-out feel and a more blended sound due to its sound-absorbing characteristics. This divergence in material choice affects the overall typing experience, as the POM bottom housing may produce a more pronounced sound on actuation, while the nylon offers a comfortable, muted response.
While there are key differences in both top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Laurel and TTC Yunhai switches, the end results in terms of sound profile converge around the same deeper auditory experience. For users seeking consistent sound qualities, mixing switches with POM and nylon across their respective housings may yield complementary results. As the POM material lends itself to a crisper auditory output and nylon provides a warmer and rounder sound, combining them can create a harmonious typing experience that balances the finer distinctions of both materials. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials not only shapes the sound profile but informs the feel of the switching mechanism, leading to a diverse yet appealing tactile feedback for typists.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, both options present a lightweight experience with very similar specifications. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Yunhai requires slightly less at 42 grams, making the Yunhai the lighter choice in terms of actuation. Both switches share an identical bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning that they provide the same resistance when pressed fully down. This similarity in bottom out force ensures that users will experience a comparable tactile feedback, even if the actuation forces differ slightly. The light actuation and bottom out forces of both switches cater well to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, though the Yunhai's slightly lower actuation force may appeal slightly more to users seeking minimal resistance. Overall, while both switches are designed for a light touch, the Yunhai holds a slight edge in actuation force, catering to those who favor a quicker response in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the TTC Yunhai linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This small difference means that users who prefer a shorter travel distance may find the KTT Laurel more responsive and conducive to quick key presses, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who favor a more pronounced depth, as it offers a slightly more tactile experience. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Laurel is the shorter option, making it better suited for those who prioritize rapid keystrokes, while the Yunhai provides a more traditional depth that some users may enjoy.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The KTT Laurel linear switch is characterized by a subtly low-pitched sound profile that is both mellow and bass-heavy, offering a pleasant acoustic experience while typing. This low-pitched quality tends to create an almost comforting auditory backdrop, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether you're working from home or in a shared office space. Compared to the KTT Laurel, the TTC Yunhai linear switch provides a unique deep and rounded sound, which contributes to a more resonant and fuller aural experience. This sound profile can be appealing for those who enjoy a sound that feels rich and substantial while typing.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel stands out with its snappy action, providing a responsive typing experience that keeps your fingers engaged and encourages a more dynamic typing rhythm. The snappy quality often results from longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the swiftness of each keystroke and contributing to an overall lively typing sensation. Meanwhile, the TTC Yunhai is designed for an incredibly light actuation force, emphasizing a gentle and effortless feel that caters to typists who prefer minimal resistance while typing. This makes the Yunhai an excellent choice for those who favor a feather-light touch but does not necessarily offer the same level of tactile responsiveness as the Laurel.
Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to differing preferences. The KTT Laurel offers a balanced combination of comfort, snappy responsiveness, and a low-pitched sound that is well-suited for a versatile typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai provides a deeper sound with an incredibly light actuation force, ideal for typists seeking a smooth and effortless touch. If you're looking for a switch that provides a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, both the KTT Laurel and TTC Yunhai can offer enjoyable results, albeit in different manners. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a snappy feel with a mellow sound or an ultra-light touch with a richer auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Laurel and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, your preferences and typing style will guide your decision. If you're someone who enjoys a responsive and snappy typing experience, coupled with a low-pitched sound that adds a subtle depth to your keystrokes, the KTT Laurel is the perfect choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force and POM housing make it not only comfortable but also efficient for fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle, effortless feel with a deeper sound profile, the TTC Yunhai will cater to your needs. Its incredibly light actuation force allows for seamless keystrokes, making it an excellent option for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, both switches are excellent in their own right, but your personal comfort and sound preferences will determine which one enhances your typing experience the most.
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