TTC Honey vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Honey and the KTT Rose, both of which are linear switches. The TTC Honey is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a frictionless typing experience. Additionally, users can enjoy a deep and pleasant sound profile while typing on these switches. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches catch the eye with their stunning aesthetics but offer more than just beauty. The use of progressive springs in these switches provides a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. Typing on the Rose switches is often likened to the sound of bassy raindrops. While these general characteristics offer some insight, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the KTT Rose have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics from both the Honey and Rose switches' polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the TTC Honey and KTT Rose differ in material choice. The Honey switch opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Rose switch features a nylon bottom housing. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile by creating a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Rose's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the choice of bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch differently.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound experience, it is essential to note how the top and bottom housings function individually. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The choice of bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will have a significant impact in this regard. Conversely, the top housing's impact becomes more evident when releasing a key. This means that the material of the top housing, which is polycarbonate for both the Honey and Rose switches, will play a crucial role in determining the sound produced upon key release.
In summary, the TTC Honey and KTT Rose switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, they differ in the material choice for the bottom housing, with the Honey employing polycarbonate and the Rose utilizing nylon. These variations affect the bottom-out sound and feel, with polycarbonate creating a sharper sound in the Honey and nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound in the Rose. It is important to consider both the top and bottom housing materials' influence when selecting switches for a desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, we can observe a distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Honey switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, which is relatively light, and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown but it is likely to fall within a medium to heavy range. However, the Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is noticeably heavier than the Honey switch. Considering weight, the Honey switch is lighter, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, especially during long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Rose switch offers a more substantial typing experience as it requires a stronger push, indicating a preference for a heavier force. For individuals seeking similar results to the Honey switch, they may opt for the Rose switch given its unknown actuation force, knowing that the bottom out force is heavier. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on an individual's preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Rose has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the Honey switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. In such cases, the Rose switch with its longer travel distance may be the preferred option, providing a more substantial and satisfying depth to the keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 Honey switch is best described as producing a subdued sound. This means that the sound emitted when pressing the switch is dampened and more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the Rose switch is also considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and users. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Honey switch is known for its creamy and frictionless experience. This means that the typing experience on the Honey switch feels smooth, buttery, and effortless. The switch provides a gliding sensation as your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the Honey switch is also described as having a subtle and polished feel, with gentle resistance and reduced friction for smooth key travel. Similarly, the KTT Rose switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches provide a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the TTC Honey switch offers a smooth and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch provides a uniquely substantial typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a smoother and buttery feel and a more subtle sound, the Honey switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a mild feel and a bass-heavy, mellow sound, the Rose switch would be a good option. It's important to keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing preferences. However, based on the information provided, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of a polished feel and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you are looking for a lighter bottom out force and a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Honey switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a deep and pleasant sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Honey switch has a subdued sound, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a uniquely substantial yet not heavy typing experience, the Rose switch would be more suitable. These switches have a low-pitched sound and provide a mellow and bass-heavy typing experience. The Rose switch also offers a polished and smooth finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Overall, both switches have their own unique qualities and it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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