KTT Miaowu vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu and the KTT Pine mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Miaowu stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, utilizing POK in its stem for a distinctive typing experience. It is often described as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. On the other hand, the Pine switch is known for its medium-heavy feel, buttery smooth keystrokes, and factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for a smooth typing experience. It is characterized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched'. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, deciding between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Miaowu and the KTT Pine feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. However, the Miaowu uses a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall.
Since the top and bottom housings play different roles in the sound and feel of a switch, the choice of materials for each component will impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing's material, in this case, polycarbonate for both the Miaowu and Pine, will affect the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced and varied typing experience depending on the specific materials used.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Miaowu and the KTT Pine use polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast demonstrates how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper sound, the housing materials of the Miaowu and Pine offer distinct typing experiences for enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Pine has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Miaowu requires 50 grams of force, making it lighter than the Pine, which requires 58 grams of force to bottom out. The Miaowu provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Pine offers a bit more resistance, giving users a more substantial typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Miaowu being lighter and the Pine being medium in terms of force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that the Miaowu has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Pine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for increased responsiveness. On the other hand, the Pine switch provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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.
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 Miaowu linear switch is often described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Miaowu offering a crisper sound and the Pine delivering a more bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is perceived as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively bounce when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is praised for its buttery and creamy feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. Both switches excel in providing a tactile experience that enhances typing comfort and satisfaction, with the Miaowu focusing on a bouncy sensation and the Pine prioritizing a smooth and uniform typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, offering a tactile and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch impresses with its bassy sound profile and buttery, creamy feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch choice, with the Miaowu bringing a bit more bounce and crisp sound, while the Pine offers a smoother and richer auditory and tactile experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Miaowu linear switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with enhanced stem stability for smoother keystroke action, the Miaowu switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a switch with a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to a factory-lubed finish, the Pine switch would be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound profile, the Miaowu switch would be the way to go, while if you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, the Pine switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your choice between the Miaowu and Pine switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing experience and sound.
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