KTT Matcha vs. KTT Pine

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Matcha and KTT Pine are both excellent options to consider. The KTT Matcha stands out as a tactile switch, offering a comfortable and snappy typing experience. Its long pole stem also generates a clean bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy weight and buttery smooth keystrokes. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction for effortless typing. While the Matcha provides a more tactile feel, the Pine offers a smooth and seamless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Matcha Tactile

KTT Pine Linear

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Pine, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those looking to customize their keyboards. So, in terms of sound and visual appeal, both the Matcha and Pine offer similar results in their housing materials.

However, while the materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Matcha and Pine are the same, it's important to note that the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be influenced more by the top housing. This division allows for a more nuanced experience when typing, as the different materials contribute to distinct sound profiles during various stages of keypress. Overall, this highlights an interesting contrast in how the housing materials of the Matcha and Pine are utilized within the switches.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Pine share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. They also offer the advantage of translucency, allowing for the use of RGB lighting. However, the division of the housing materials between the top and bottom has an impact on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These nuances contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch, providing users with options that cater to their personal preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Pine requires slightly more force at 45 grams. Similarly, when bottoming out, the Matcha requires 45 grams of force, whereas the Pine is slightly heavier at 58 grams.

The lighter actuation force of the Matcha makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, allowing for quicker and more effortless typing. This can be beneficial for those who type for extended periods, as it reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Pine's slightly heavier actuation force provides a more substantial push feel, giving typists a sense of precision and control. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a more tactile feedback during typing.

In terms of bottom out force, both switches provide a similar result as both require a force of 45 grams for the Matcha and 58 grams for the Pine. This means that regardless of the actuation force, the typing experience will feel somewhat similar when fully pressing down the keys on both switches.

When considering weight, it becomes evident that the Matcha is the lighter option, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions, whether it be at work or during marathon gaming sessions. Conversely, the Pine's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be preferred by those seeking a more robust and satisfying typing experience.

In conclusion, while the KTT Matcha and KTT Pine switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer their unique advantages. The Matcha provides a lighter and smoother keystroke, perfect for extended typing sessions, while the Pine offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and equal tactile experience, ensuring a satisfying keypress feel. Therefore, whether you choose the Matcha or Pine switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as clacky, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. 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 used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. The stepped feel refers to a switch with two stages, providing a mild tactility with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. The snappy characteristic indicates the switch's responsiveness, making the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the Matcha switch offers an accented medium tactile experience, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. It also has a feathery feel, with exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Lastly, the Matcha has a subtle resistance and a non-resonant sound signature, making it suitable for shared spaces.

In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. These switches provide a uniform typing sensation that glides across the keys with ease. The creamy description suggests that the switch has a smooth and buttery typing experience, possibly due to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on a Pine switch offers a silky sensation with effortless keystrokes that seamlessly melt into each other.

Based on the available information, the KTT Matcha and KTT Pine switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Matcha switch offers a snappy tactility, clean bottom-out sound, and a range of feels including stepped, accented, feathery, and subtle. On the other hand, the Pine switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience, a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, and a creamy feel. While they are different in terms of sound and feel, both switches are designed to enhance typing experiences and provide comfort. Depending on individual preferences and needs, choosing either the Matcha or the Pine switch will result in satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Matcha switch provides a light bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easy on your fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Matcha switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, the Pine switch offers a slightly heavier feel compared to the Matcha. It provides a buttery and creamy sensation when typing, thanks to its polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. The Pine switch is also described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you value comfort, snappy tactility, and a clean bottom-out sound, go for the Matcha. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and a deeper sound profile, the Pine is the way to go. Consider your typing style, desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more

KTT Pine Linear

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn more