TTC Gold Red vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Wine Red, both of which are linear switches. The Gold Red is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. The snappy sound profile of these switches adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light type feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. These switches are categorized as bassy and low-pitched. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making the decision between the two a matter of personal preference. 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
43g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and KTT Wine Red switches have both similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from the top housing of both switches.
However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The Gold Red switch incorporates nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well. This stiffer plastic material contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile.
The distinction in the bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more pronounced, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the top housing materials produce similar characteristics in both switches, the varying bottom housing materials offer differences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are some noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Wine Red requires 44 grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red needs 50 grams, while the Wine Red requires a slightly heavier 55 grams. Overall, both switches provide relatively light forces for actuation and bottoming out, with the Gold Red being slightly lighter in both aspects. This makes the Gold Red a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and need to type for extended periods. On the other hand, the Wine Red would be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience. Despite the variations, the differences between the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches are relatively small, meaning that both switches would provide similar results for most users.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched qualities. The deep and satisfying sound it produces when pressed and released can be likened to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud". This switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is not too overpowering, making it suitable for various settings such as home or work environments. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. Typing on these switches offers a pillowy light type feel with a deep and rich sound profile. The sound produced by the Wine Red switches can be characterized by a lower frequency range, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red switch offers a mild and silky typing experience. With its smooth and refined finish, it provides a sleek typing experience that is enhanced by reduced friction and smooth key travel. The mild and subtle resistance of the Gold Red switch ensures a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most. Furthermore, its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Unfortunately, there is no provided description of the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. However, based on the information given, it is safe to assume that it may offer a similar light and smooth typing experience as the Gold Red. Without specific details, it is difficult to compare the feel of the two switches accurately.
In conclusion, the Gold Red and Wine Red switches have distinct qualities when it comes to sound. The Gold Red offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, while the Wine Red is described as bassy and low-pitched. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild, silky, and polished typing experience, while the feel of the Wine Red remains unknown. Both switches offer a light-medium resistance level and are suitable for various purposes. It is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to determine the best switch for individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light-medium level of resistance and a buttery smooth typing experience, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. They also provide a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a pillowy light type feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be a perfect fit. These switches have a bassy and low-pitched sound, reminiscent of the depth and richness associated with bass tones. While we don't have specific descriptions of their feel, based on their sound profile, you can expect a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features, allowing you to choose based on your preferred typing experience and sound preferences.
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