Gateron Beer vs. KTT Rose

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Beer and the KTT Rose mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that the Beer switch is a tactile switch while the Rose switch is a linear switch. The Gateron Beer stands out for its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle and offers a light and stepped tactility, along with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the KTT Rose features progressive springs for a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, emitting a satisfying bassy sound when typing. While the Beer switch is known for being clacky and easy-to-press, the Rose switch is characterized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing choices for different preferences in typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

KTT Rose Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.01 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer and the KTT Rose both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with clear housings, making it perfect for RGB lighting. However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Beer has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Rose features a nylon bottom housing. The Beer's bottom housing contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the Rose's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound.

While both switches share similar characteristics with their polycarbonate top housing, they diverge when it comes to the material of their bottom housing. The Gateron Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, enhancing the overall sound profile with a sharp and clear tone. In contrast, the KTT Rose's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, creating a different auditory sensation when typing on the switch. Each housing material has its own unique properties that affect the overall sound and feel of the switch, demonstrating how material choice can impact the typing experience in various ways.

In summary, the Gateron Beer and KTT Rose exhibit differences in their housing materials that affect the sound and feel of typing on each switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing accentuates this profile, while the Rose's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users select the switch that best suits their preferred typing sound and feel. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.

Weight

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the KTT Rose linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Beer switch is 50 grams, which is lighter than the Rose switch's bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making the Rose switch heavier. The lighter actuation force of the Beer switch may be preferred by those who need to type for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Rose switch may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback, with the Beer switch providing a tactile bump and the Rose switch offering a linear feel. In terms of weight, some users may find the lighter Beer switch more suitable for work or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier Rose switch for a stronger push feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Rose linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of response time, the Beer switch may offer a slight advantage due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick and precise key presses. On the other hand, the Rose switch may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation force, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. In general, the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch will provide a faster response, while the longer travel distance of the Rose switch may offer a more pronounced and satisfying key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch produces a low-pitched sound with bassy raindrop tones, offering a more mellow and neutral sound profile. While the Beer switch gives off a crisp and bright sound, the Rose switch provides a deeper and more relaxed typing experience. Sound preference ultimately comes down to personal taste and the overall build of the keyboard.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. With a stepped tactility, this switch provides a subtle two-stage keystroke experience, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and a gentle typing feel. The progressive springs in the Rose switch contribute to a unique typing experience that strikes a balance between substantial feedback and light actuation.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, while the Rose switch gives a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing experience with progressive springs. Both switches cater to different preferences, so it would be wise to consider factors such as sound preference and typing feel when deciding between the two. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a light and easy-to-press feel with a unique clacky sound signature, the Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force with a mild and polished typing experience accompanied by a low-pitched and bassy sound, the Rose switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most. Consider testing out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

KTT Rose Linear

$3.01 per 10

Learn more