Bsun Jade Rosales vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Lightning offers distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Jade Rosales, crafted by XY Studio, is renowned for its meticulous refinement over a year, resulting in custom housings, stems, and lubrication techniques that culminate in an exceptionally smooth and linear typing experience. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize a fluid keystroke without the distractions of tactile feedback or audible clicks. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switches are designed for those who thrive on speed; these "speed" switches are meticulously tuned to enhance performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios, delivering a slick typing feel paired with a clacky sound profile that adds a certain character to each keystroke. While both options fall within the linear switch category, your ultimate decision might hinge on whether you value a smoother, quieter experience or a more engaging auditory feedback during intense sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Jade Rosales and KTT Lightning switch housings both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing each switch with a comparable sharpness and clarity in their audio profiles. This decision to utilize polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, ensures that both switches produce a crisper and higher-pitched sound. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, as it allows the lights to shine through effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a vibrant visual experience alongside an engaging auditory one, as the shared material contributes to similarities in the sound profile as well as the light diffusion.
In contrast to their top housings, the bottom housings of the Jade Rosales and KTT Lightning switches differ significantly. The Jade Rosales utilizes a proprietary custom milky material blend, designed to offer a unique combination of qualities that enhance the bottom-out experience. In contrast, the KTT Lightning employs a nylon bottom housing, a more traditional material known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller auditory profile. As a result, while the top housing may yield similar crisper sounds, the bottom housing of the Jade Rosales will deliver a distinct impact, potentially resulting in a more rounded sound when the switch is fully pressed down. This divergence in materials leads to a nuanced difference in the feel and acoustic characteristics of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials in the overall design of both switches indicates how the sound profile and typing experience will vary significantly despite some similarities. While both the Jade Rosales and KTT Lightning provide sharpness and clarity from their polycarbonate top housings, the unique characteristics of their bottom housings will dictate the resonance and quality of the sound produced upon bottoming out. The Jade Rosales's custom milky blend will likely result in a smoother and potentially quieter bottom-out sound, while the KTT Lightning's nylon will give a more pronounced sound with a richer depth. This interplay between the top and bottom housing materials illustrates how different acoustic qualities can be balanced within a single switch design, providing enthusiasts with a range of tactile and auditory functions tailored to user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, we see some notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jade Rosales has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. In contrast, the KTT Lightning is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Lightning switch more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Jade Rosales offers a slightly heftier feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches provide a smooth linear feel, the slight differences in weight and force may influence users' preferences based on their typing style and ergonomic needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the Jade Rosales offers a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference means that users of the Jade Rosales may experience a more substantial key press, which some may find more satisfying or traditional. In contrast, the KTT Lightning's shorter travel distance can provide a quicker response time, appealing especially to gamers who favor speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences: those who appreciate a deeper key press may lean towards the Jade Rosales, while those who prefer a snappier feel may opt for the Lightning.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches have an unidentified sound profile, leaving their acoustic characteristics somewhat of a mystery. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switches are notably clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This high-pitched sound adds a lively character to the typing experience, while the chirpy element lends a unique acoustic signature. It’s worth noting that the final sound will still depend on factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Jade Rosales switches are also not described, making it difficult to determine how they compare in tactile sensations. In contrast, the Lightning switches provide a subtle resistance combined with a polished finish, which delivers a light and smooth typing experience. This combination ensures reduced friction and a sleek key travel while maintaining a gentle touch that is suitable for shared spaces. The polished nature of the Lightning switches further enhances their appeal, giving you confidence in each keystroke.
Considering both sound and feel, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches present an ambiguous profile, leaving some qualities open to interpretation, whereas the KTT Lightning switches shine with their distinct clacky sound and a polished typing experience. For newcomers, if you favor a lively sound and a smooth, refined feel, the KTT Lightning switches are likely the better choice. If you're curious about the Jade Rosales, they may provide a similarly refined typing experience—but without the audible qualities currently known about the Lightning. Ultimately, personal preference will guide your decision, so trying both options whenever possible can help you discover what resonates best with you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Lightning linear switches ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a medium-light actuation force that provides a smooth and refined typing experience, the Jade Rosales may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you appreciate meticulous craftsmanship and a focus on a luxurious feel. However, if you are a gamer or someone who thrives in fast-paced scenarios where quick response times are essential, the KTT Lightning switches, with their lighter actuation force and clacky, high-pitched sound profile, will likely serve you better. Their subtle resistance and polished nature make them comfortable for extended periods, while still providing the tactile feedback that many users seek in both gaming and typing environments. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the balance between your typing style and the acoustic environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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