KTT Matcha vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and TTC Silent Frozen are both popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Matcha is renowned for its tactile feedback, offering a comfortable and snappy typing experience. Additionally, this switch is known for its clean bottom-out sound, which adds to the overall satisfaction of using it. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen stands out for its incredibly quiet sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. The smoothness and pillowy feel of the Silent Frozen further enhance its appeal. Both switches have their unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make the best decision for your ideal switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the TTC Silent Frozen both use polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings. This material choice creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Overall, the housing materials of both switches contribute to a similar sound and aesthetic experience.
However, if the top and bottom housings of a switch were different, as mentioned, the qualities of each housing material would be split between the respective parts of the switch. In this case, when pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics would be more noticeable in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing would have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This difference highlights the importance of a cohesive housing material throughout the switch for a consistent and harmonious sound experience.
In summary, the KTT Matcha and TTC Silent Frozen share the use of polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings. This material provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, along with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting. However, if the top and bottom housings were different, the bottom housing would affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing would influence the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound characteristics of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, we can see that both switches are relatively light. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Frozen has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. Therefore, both switches require a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke and have a similar resistance when pressing all the way down.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes them ideal for individuals who use keyboards extensively for work or gaming purposes. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, options with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In summary, both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch provide a light actuation force and bottom out force, allowing for comfortable typing experiences. The absence of a significant difference in force between the two switches means that individuals can expect similar results in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Matcha has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which falls into the more traditional range for switch travel distances. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. As a result, the Matcha offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Silent Frozen. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If responsiveness is a top priority, the Silent Frozen may be the preferred choice. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the longer travel distance of the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
The KTT Matcha tactile switch is best known for its comfortable and snappy tactility. When typing on these switches, users can expect a comfortable and satisfying feel with a distinct clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. These switches are super smooth and have a pillowy type feel.
In terms of sound, the Matcha switch is described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is described as "thocky," producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. These switches also have a low-pitched and muted sound, 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 choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Matcha switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. Stepped switches have two stages of tactility, providing a mild bump with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Snappy switches are highly responsive and give a lively typing experience. Accented switches provide a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Feathery switches are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain. Subtle switches offer a gentle resistance while still maintaining a light typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. Creamy switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, gliding effortlessly across the keys. Butter switches provide a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Feathery switches are light to press, reducing finger fatigue. Subtle switches have a gentle resistance while maintaining a light feel and producing a non-resonant sound. Polished switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha offers a clacky sound and a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen offers a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, with a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. While both switches have feathery and subtle qualities in feel, providing a light typing experience with reduced finger strain, each switch offers its own unique sound profile and additional feel characteristics. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, they can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a comfortable and snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha is an excellent choice. The Matcha switch offers a light bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it easy on your fingers during extended typing sessions. It also provides a clean and distinct bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 43 grams, it shares a similar light feel with the Matcha. The Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile and super smooth, pillowy feel. In terms of sound, the Matcha produces a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch offers a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. If you prefer a low-pitched and muted sound, the Silent Frozen will minimize noise typical of mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Matcha provides a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle typing experience. It offers a mild tactility, which is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Silent Frozen, on the other hand, offers a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the Matcha and the Silent Frozen will depend on your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider the specific qualities described and select the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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