KTT Matcha vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and Jwick Taro are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Matcha is widely regarded as a top-notch tactile switch, known for its comfortable and snappy tactility. Typing on the Matcha provides a satisfying sensation, complemented by a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Taro also offers a pleasant typing experience with a cozy feel, in line with its subdued color scheme. Users can expect a medium level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. While both switches offer their own advantages, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and Jwick Taro both use polycarbonate for their top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Matcha and Taro switches offer similar sound profiles and visual effects due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Matcha and Taro differ in materials. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, whereas the Taro uses nylon. This distinction leads to differences in the sound produced by each switch. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of a sharper and crisper sound profile, contributing to the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. Conversely, the Taro's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound that is absorbed by the softer plastic. These contrasting characteristics in the bottom housings provide alternative typing experiences between the Matcha and Taro switches.
In summary, the top housings of the KTT Matcha and Jwick Taro are the same, thanks to their polycarbonate material. This leads to similar sound profiles and the aesthetic advantage of translucency for RGB lighting. However, the bottom housings bring differentiation to the switches. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing retains the sharper and crisper sound, whereas the Taro's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. Therefore, the choice between the two switches depends on the desired typing experience and sound preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Matcha boasts a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who prefer extended typing sessions or engage in prolonged gaming activities. Conversely, the Taro tactile switch's actuation force remains unknown, but its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 67 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Taro may be the preferred option. It is important to consider these weight variations when selecting a switch, as personal preference and usage requirements greatly influence the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.7mm is slightly shallower. However, both switches fall within the range of short travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the shorter 3.7mm travel distance of the Taro switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a greater sense of depth. For those who enjoy a more hearty feel, the 4.0mm travel distance of the Matcha switch would be a better choice. Overall, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 offers a clacky experience. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes, without being too loud or too quiet. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Matcha is described as having a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. The stepped feel refers to the two-stage tactile feedback felt during keystrokes, where there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The snappy nature of the switch enhances the responsiveness of typing. The accented description implies that the switch provides a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Matcha is described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion to press and is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Lastly, the Matcha offers a subtle typing feel with a gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the Jwick Taro also offers a stepped feel, similar to the Matcha. This means that there are two stages of tactile feedback during keystrokes, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the Taro is described as having a buttery feel, suggesting that it provides a smooth and fluid typing experience. This implies that the keystrokes with the Taro switches are seamless, effortless, and uniform.
Taking into account all the available information, it is clear that both the KTT Matcha and Jwick Taro switches have their own unique qualities. The Matcha offers a snappy tactility, a clean bottom-out sound, and a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro provides a cozy typing experience, acute and crisp clacks, and a smooth keystroke sensation. While they may have some differences in sound and feel, they both offer enjoyable and satisfying typing experiences. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, either of these switches would be a great choice. Remember to also consider other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps to fully customize your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and comfortable typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is an excellent choice. These switches have a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making them light and easy to press. The Matcha switches provide a snappy and mildly tactile feel, with a comfortable amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They also have a distinctive clean bottom-out sound due to their long pole stem. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a cozy typing experience and acute clacking sound, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is a great option. With a bottom-out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a snappy and medium-level of tactility, providing a comfortable typing experience. The Taro switches also have a stepped feel, meaning you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, and produce crisp and bright clacks. Ultimately, the choice between the Matcha and Taro switches depends on your preferences for bottom-out force, tactility, and sound.
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