Kailh Plum vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum and the KTT Wine Red. The Kailh Plum stands out for its unique combination of heftiness and a subtle tactile bump, which is different from other tactile switches. Despite its weight, this switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red provides a pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. It is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best switch decision for yourself.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the KTT Wine Red, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This choice of material offers similar benefits for both switches in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness and resonant properties. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Plum or the Wine Red, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Plum utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, typing on the Plum switch will offer a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, complementing the qualities of the top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate ensures a clear and resonant sound profile, providing a consistent auditory feedback.
When it comes to typing on these switches, the split between top and bottom housings becomes apparent. Pressing down on a key will primarily make you feel the characteristics of the bottom housing. With the Plum's nylon bottom housing, you can expect to experience a softer and more cushioned bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a firmer and more solid bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing, shared by both switches, will impact the sound when you release the key, ensuring a consistent and satisfying auditory feedback upon key release.
Overall, while the top housings offer similar benefits to both the Kailh Plum and the KTT Wine Red, their differing bottom housing materials provide distinct typing experiences. The Plum's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing ensures a sharper and clearer sound. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences that cater to different preferences. The Plum's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare with the KTT Wine Red's actuation force of 44 grams. However, it is important to note that both switches provide a medium force required for triggering a keystroke, indicating a similar result in terms of responsiveness.
In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a higher force requirement, measuring at 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. This offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive strain on the fingers.
When considering weight, the preference for having a lighter or heavier switch is subjective and based on individual typing habits and preferences. Some users may favor the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Wine Red, as it allows for prolonged typing sessions and is suitable for situations like work or extended gaming. Conversely, those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience may lean towards the heavier actuation and bottom out forces offered by the Kailh Plum tactile switch.
Overall, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a medium-light option. By understanding the actuation force and bottom out force of these switches, users can select the one that best suits their desired typing experience. Whether it be a preference for a stronger push feel or the desire for a lighter switch, both options cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Wine Red the slightly longer option between the two. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Wine Red falls within the more traditional range, while the 3.6mm travel distance of the Plum is slightly shorter. Shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the Plum switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable option for those seeking enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt, and would therefore prefer the longer travel distance of the Wine Red switch for a more substantial key-press experience. Overall, choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have distinct differences in terms of sound and feel.
Starting with the sound profile, the Plum switch is described as having a neutral sound. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch is described as being bassy and low-pitched. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
Moving on to the feel, the Plum switch provides a mild and stepped typing experience. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The mild qualities of the Plum switch make it approachable to most users, as it stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. The stepped feature of the switch means that it has two stages of tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, no specific information is provided about the feel of the Wine Red switch.
In conclusion, the Plum switch stands out for its unique combination of a hefty feel with a less pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound profile. It provides a mild and stepped typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch is best known for its intoxicating feel and satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, but specific details about its feel are not mentioned. Both switches offer distinctive qualities, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on the individual's personal preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, while the descriptions provide a general idea, actual results may vary depending on the setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with unique tactility and weightiness, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice. It offers a medium actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. The Plum switch provides a mild and stepped typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel to most typists. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is perfect for you. With a lower actuation force, the Wine Red switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound during key presses, adding to the satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your preference for weightiness, tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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