Jwick Taro vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro 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 that often come up are the Jwick Taro and the KTT Wine Red. The Taro switches are well-known for their cozy typing experience, with a snappy medium-level of tactility and acute and crisp clacks. Their subdued color scheme adds to the overall aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer an intoxicating typing experience, with a pillowy light type feel and a deep and rich sound profile. While the Taro switches are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped', the Wine Red switches are described as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their unique qualities and choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Taro and the KTT Wine Red switches differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, the Taro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Wine Red uses a polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, both switches share similarities due to the polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffness in the plastic material allows for a clear and resonant sound profile. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice if RGB lighting is intended to be used.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Taro's nylon material offers a different experience compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, similar to its top housing.
Ultimately, the difference in bottom and top housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. Pressing down on the Taro will emphasize the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing of the Taro will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the bottom housing of the Wine Red plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when keys are released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Taro's actuation force is currently unknown, while the Wine Red requires 44 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Taro is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Wine Red's 55 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch while the Wine Red is considered medium-light.
Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Wine Red switch with its actuation force of 44 grams would be a suitable choice. It allows for longer typing periods, which is ideal for extended work sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Taro switch. While its actuation force is unknown, the heavier bottom out force of 67 grams provides a stronger push feel. This can result in a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
Considering their actuation and bottom out forces, it is clear that the Wine Red switch is lighter and more responsive compared to the Taro switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range, meaning they are suitable for a wide range of typists. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel, both the Taro and Wine Red switches offer options to cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, we can see a slight difference. The Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Wine Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Wine Red being slightly closer to the typical value of 4.0 mm. Gamers might lean towards the Taro switch with its shorter travel distance, as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may favor the Wine Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 Taro tactile switch offers a cozy and comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility. When using these switches, users can expect to hear acute and crisp clacks, providing an overall satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red linear switch offers a pillowy light type feel, resulting in a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. While the feel of the Wine Red switches is known, the sound profile is not described.
In terms of sound, the Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound, suitable for various purposes whether the user is a beginner or advanced, and whether they plan to use the switches at home or work. In contrast, the Wine Red switches are described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. This sound profile resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
When it comes to feel, the Taro switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, they are classified as stepped switches, meaning that they have a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Wine Red switches is unknown and not described in the given information.
In conclusion, the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Taro switches offer a medium-level tactility with acute and crisp clacks, providing a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound profile. They also offer a buttery and stepped feel, resulting in a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches have a pillowy light type feel, but the sound profile and further details about the feel are uncertain. While the Taro and Wine Red switches offer distinct qualities, it is important to note that the final sound and feel experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with medium-level tactility and crisp clacks, along with a cozy and subdued color scheme, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy touch that many users find pleasing. Additionally, the Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, or plan to use it at home or work. In terms of feel, the Taro switch is described as buttery and stepped, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile bump.
On the other hand, if you prefer a pillowy light typing feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, along with a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a unique typing experience with its intoxicating qualities. The Wine Red switch is characterized by its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which adds depth and richness to each key press. While there isn't a specific description of its feel, users often find it to be smooth and effortless.
Ultimately, your choice between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch will depend on your personal preferences. Consider whether you value a comfortable and medium-heavy touch with a cozy color scheme, or a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities and will provide a delightful typing experience. So, assess your needs and make a decision that suits you best. Happy typing!
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