KTT Mint vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Gateron Type A both stand out as linear switches with unique qualities. The Mint is praised for its smooth linear feel, offering a satisfying typing experience with a poppy thockiness and light touch. On the other hand, the Type A from Gateron introduces innovative features like adjusted travel distances and factory lubing techniques for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Type A falls under 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch offers its own set of strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Gateron Type A, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. The absorbing properties of nylon also contribute to a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, users can expect similar sound and feel between the Mint and Type A switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Mint utilizes polycarbonate while the Type A uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mint creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those looking for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making the Mint visually appealing as well. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type A provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing a more muffled tone. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the crispness of the Mint or the depth of the Type A when it comes to typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Mint and the Gateron Type A ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and tactile feel. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the difference in top housing materials sets them apart. The Mint's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound, ideal for users who prefer a crisper typing experience, while the Type A's nylon top housing provides a deeper and more muffled sound, catering to those who enjoy a fuller tone. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Mint is lighter in both aspects. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, with the Mint being slightly lighter than the Type A. These differences in weight can impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter feel of the Mint for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may gravitate towards the slightly heavier Type A for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 comparing the sound of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, the Mint offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Type A switch presents a neutral and subdued sound, offering a dampened yet subtle sound signature when pressed. Both switches aim to provide a moderate sound profile that caters to a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists, depending on your preferences for sound feedback and typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mint switch is noted for its mild and polished characteristics, delivering a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. As for the Gateron Type A switch, information on its specific feel qualities is unknown. However, considering its placement as a medium-weight switch with a factory-lubed design, we can infer that it may offer a similar smooth and refined typing experience, potentially falling in line with the qualities of the Mint switch.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mint excels in providing a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel, while the Type A emphasizes a neutral sound profile and potentially a similar smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound feedback, typing feel, and other factors such as the keyboard and keycap setup. Experimenting with different switches can help you determine the best fit for your typing style and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a switch with a satisfyingly smooth linear feel and a light and fleeting typing experience, then the Mint might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum and a slightly higher bottom out force, then the Type A could be the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound, feel, or bottom out force when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
