KTT Pine vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the TTC Silent 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 KTT Pine and the TTC Silent Red. The KTT Pine is well-known for its translucent, forest green design that exudes a sense of natural aesthetics. This linear switch offers a medium-heavy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too strenuous. With its buttery smoothness and minimal friction due to the factory-lubed finish, the KTT Pine switch ensures effortless key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. This switch is specifically designed to minimize noise, making it ideal for office settings or shared living spaces. Its smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, combined with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort, makes the TTC Silent Red an excellent choice for those who prioritize tranquility without compromising on typing quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the TTC Silent Red have similar housing materials in their top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual appeal of the switch. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the top housings of these two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Pine and Silent Red differ in their materials. The Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silent Red integrates nylon into its bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Silent Red switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine contributes to the overall sound and feel when the switch is pressed, particularly in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, users can expect variations in the typing experience and sound characteristics between these two switches based on their choice of bottom housing material.
In summary, the top housing materials of the KTT Pine and the TTC Silent Red are the same, utilizing polycarbonate. These materials offer similar advantages, such as producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as being compatible with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The Pine utilizes polycarbonate, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the Silent Red incorporates nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Hence, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in differentiating the typing experience and sound characteristics of these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is apparent that they have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that both switches require an equal amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight difference. The KTT Pine switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy.
Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes evident that the KTT Pine switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the TTC Silent Red switch is a bit heavier. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience to enable longer sessions without fatigue, the KTT Pine switch would be a suitable choice. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or indulge in long gaming sessions.
On the contrary, individuals who desire a more substantial and pronounced typing experience may prefer the TTC Silent Red switch with its heavier bottom out force. This added force provides a stronger push feel and gives the typing experience a more satisfying feedback.
Though both switches have the same actuation force, their different bottom out forces cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine and the TTC Silent Red switch depends on whether one leans towards a lighter and more prolonged typing experience or a heavier and more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Pine linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the Pine has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches offer a noticeable difference in travel distance, with the Pine providing a more traditional and deeper feel, and the Silent Red offering a slightly shallower experience.
Traditionally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered standard, while the 3.7 mm distance of the Silent Red falls on the shallower end. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Silent Red may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial depth and a less abrupt feel while typing or gaming might find the 4 mm travel distance of the Pine to be more satisfying.
Overall, while the Pine and Silent Red switches differ slightly in travel distance, they both offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. Whether you favor a shorter or longer travel distance, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses. This low-pitched sound is reminiscent of the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch produces a muted sound. This means that it produces softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Red switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a great choice for office or shared living space use. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Pine and the TTC Silent Red switches offer a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. The KTT Pine switch is also described as creamy, offering a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys with ease. This is likely due to the lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. The Silent Red switch, on the other hand, is described as mild. It offers a more gentle typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Silent Red switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, both the KTT Pine and TTC Silent Red switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience. They provide a uniform typing sensation, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize a comfortable typing experience. While the Pine switch offers a bassy sound profile, the Silent Red switch produces a muted sound, making it a more suitable choice for quiet environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a smooth and effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Pine Linear Switch would be a great choice. These switches are known for their buttery smooth feel and have a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Additionally, the Pine switches have a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which adds a deeper and richer tone to your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent and muted typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the TTC Silent Red Linear Switch is the perfect option. These switches are specifically designed to deliver a seamless and quiet typing experience, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. The Silent Reds have a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. They are also described as buttery and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine and TTC Silent Red switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a deeper and richer sound profile and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Pine switches are a great fit. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted and silent typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Silent Red switches would be more suitable. Consider these factors along with your own typing style and environment to make an informed decision.
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