Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Pine. The MX Black is well-known for its perfected design by Cherry, offering a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile while typing. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff', this switch provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches boast a medium-heavy weight, buttery smoothness, and effortless typing. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction for a silky key travel experience. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched', they offer a distinct feel. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics so you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited to your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and KTT Pine switches differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles and aesthetics. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness of the plastic material. In contrast, the Pine switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials affect the sound produced, they contribute different characteristics to the switches' overall profiles.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the MX Black utilizes nylon, similar to its top housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Pine switch employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. The bottom housing influences the impact and sound when pressing down on a key, emphasizing the importance of choosing the appropriate material to achieve the desired typing experience.
In summary, the Cherry MX Black and KTT Pine switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles and aesthetics. While the MX Black's nylon material elicits a deeper sound, the Pine switch's polycarbonate material generates a sharper and crisper sound. However, if the top and bottom housings are the same for a particular switch, the characteristics of both materials will be combined, impacting the typing experience and overall sound produced.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch provide different options for keyboard enthusiasts. The MX Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the Pine requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the MX Black will require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Pine. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the MX Black is on the heavier side with 80 grams, while the Pine is slightly lighter at 58 grams. The MX Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a satisfying tactile response. On the other hand, the Pine offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming. The differing weights of these switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of travel distance. Whether using the Cherry MX Black or the KTT Pine, users can expect a smooth and consistent travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have different sound profiles. The MX Black switch is known for its low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Pine switch has a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer a deep sound, but the Pine switch may provide a slightly richer sound due to its bassy nature. 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.
When it comes to feel, the MX Black switch has a textured and stiff quality. The textured feature refers to noticeable friction when pressing the switch, which can be preferred by some users. Additionally, the MX Black switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, resulting in a stiffer typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch is described as buttery and creamy. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Pine switch offers a silky feeling, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Taking all this information into account, it's clear that the Cherry MX Black and KTT Pine switches have distinct subjective qualities. The MX Black switch offers a familiar deep sound profile and a textured, stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch provides a bassy sound profile and a buttery, creamy typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose the switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel. However, it's important to note that the availability of lubrication and the choice of board and keycaps may also influence the overall experience. Therefore, while the Cherry MX Black and KTT Pine switches offer different qualities, users can achieve similar results by considering all these factors and making informed choices.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a deep sound profile and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. With its 80-gram bottom out force, it provides a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a heavier key press. The low-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing sensation, making it a favorite among users who enjoy a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the textured feel of the MX Black switch might be appealing to some individuals who prefer noticeable friction when typing.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a medium-weight switch with a buttery smoothness and a creamy typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch is a great option to consider. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a lighter touch compared to the MX Black. The Pine switch's polished, factory-lubed finish minimizes friction, resulting in smooth and effortless key travel. The combination of a bassy, low-pitched sound profile and a buttery, creamy feel creates a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is reminiscent of gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Pine linear switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the desired actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch would best suit your typing style and preferences.
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