KTT Pine vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Pine and the Jwick Taro. The KTT Pine is a linear switch that is best known for its medium-heavy weight, buttery smoothness, and effortless typing experience. It features a polished, factory-lubed finish, minimizing friction for a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro is a tactile switch that offers a different experience. It provides a snappy, medium-level of tactility and produces acute and crisp clacks while typing. While the Pine is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', the Taro falls under 'Neutral', 'Buttery', 'Stepped'. Both switches have their unique qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Jwick Taro, specifically their top housings, are both made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. If you are looking for similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal, both the Pine and the Taro would be good options due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Pine and Taro differ in material. The Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Taro utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the Taro's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, if you prioritize a switch with a deeper sound during typing, the Taro's nylon bottom housing may be more suited to your preferences.
It's important to note that the impact of the different housing materials is felt when pressing down on the switches and when letting go of a key. The qualities brought by the bottom housing, whether it be polycarbonate or nylon, greatly influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material has a more significant impact on the sound created when releasing a key. Thus, if you are seeking specific sound characteristics during both pressing and releasing a key, these differences in the housing materials of the Pine and Taro should be considered.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Pine switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Taro switch is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Pine switch requires 58 grams of force, which is slightly lighter compared to the Taro switch's bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considerations for weight play a role in the choice of these switches. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for comfortable typing over extended periods of time, making them suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for options with heavier forces.
While the specific actuation force for the Taro switch is unknown, its medium actuation force implies that it may provide a similar result to the Pine switch in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, the heavier bottom out force of the Taro switch may provide a slightly more pronounced and substantial typing experience compared to the Pine switch, which has a slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Pine linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Pine being more on the standard side and the Taro being slightly shallower. In recent years, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Taro with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, some people find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on the keys. In this case, the Pine with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires.
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 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 Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched profile during key presses. This results in a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound with no specific emphasis on bass or treble. Both switches offer pleasing sound characteristics, but the Pine switch has a distinct bassy tone while the Taro switch has a more balanced and versatile sound.
In terms of feel, both the Pine and Taro switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Pine switch is also described as creamy, offering a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys with ease. The Taro switch, on the other hand, is described as stepped, which means it has a tactile feedback that feels like it has two stages. You can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, making it more mild in comparison to switches with a stronger tactile bump. Overall, both switches offer a pleasurable typing experience with a smooth and comfortable feel.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Pine linear switch stands out for its bassy sound profile and creamy typing experience. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Its buttery and creamy feel provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feedback. While it may not have the same bassy sound or creamy feel as the Pine switch, it still provides a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Pine switch offering a unique sound and feel, while the Taro switch provides a versatile and balanced option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a smoother and more buttery typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the KTT Pine linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its factory-lubed finish and medium-heavy weight, these switches provide effortless and uniform key travel. Additionally, the Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile during key presses, adding depth and richness to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Jwick Taro switch would be a great option. The Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy and medium-level of tactility. It provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner, advanced typist, or using it at home or work. The Taro switch also offers a buttery and stepped feel, providing a smooth and mild tactile sensation throughout each keystroke.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch comes down to personal preference. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and tactile feedback to choose the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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