KTT Matcha vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options available to suit different preferences. Two popular options are the KTT Matcha and the TTC Silent Red switches. The KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable and snappy typing experience. It is known for its clean bottom-out sound, making it a favorite among those who value a distinct tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch offers a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise. With its muted sound profile, these switches are ideal for office or shared living spaces. Additionally, they provide a consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and TTC Silent Red switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal from both the Matcha and Silent Red switches.
However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which complements the qualities of the top housing. This combination creates a consistent sound profile and a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Silent Red switches.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom of a switch makes a difference. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the way the switch responds when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound produced when a key is released. By considering the properties of each housing material, users can choose a switch that aligns with their preferred sound profile and typing sensation.
In summary, both the KTT Matcha and TTC Silent Red switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the Matcha has a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing consistent sound characteristics throughout the typing experience, while the Silent Red features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help users make an informed choice based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Matcha switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Silent Red switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for long periods, the Matcha switch may be the more suitable option. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Matcha switch has a slightly heavier force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Red switch's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This indicates that the Silent Red switch offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and whether one prioritizes a lighter touch or a stronger typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch is 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Overall, the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Red. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Matcha is more traditional, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Silent Red's 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quicker response times. The shorter travel distance allows for faster key presses and may be more suitable for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Silent Red to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience – a shorter travel distance for faster responses or a longer travel distance for a more satisfying depth to the key press.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 Matcha tactile switch has a clacky sound profile. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer different sound experiences, catering to different preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a combination of qualities. It is described as stepped, which means it has two stages of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This adds an extra level of feedback to the typing experience. The Matcha switch is also snappy, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. It is considered accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Matcha switch is feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal finger exertion. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Silent Red switch is also mild, offering a gentle typing experience without more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making its qualities approachable to most. Furthermore, the Silent Red switch is polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound with comfortable and snappy tactility. It offers a stepped feel with two stages of tactility, snappiness due to longer or dual-staged springs, and a feathery lightness that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for office or shared living spaces. It delivers a buttery smooth and seamless typing experience, with a mild feel that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches have their own merits and cater to different preferences. Depending on your personal preferences, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, this switch offers a light touch and an accented tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It has a stepped feel, meaning you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, but it is not as pronounced as a hypertactile switch. Additionally, the Matcha switch has a clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, this switch offers a medium-heavy touch and a mild feel. It has a consistent and buttery typing sensation, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. The Silent Red switch has a muted sound profile, making it suitable for office or shared living spaces where noise is a concern.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with a snappy feel and clacky sound, go for the Matcha switch. If you prefer a smoother touch with a mild feel and muted sound, go for the Silent Red switch. Consider your typing environment and personal preferences when making your decision.
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