KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and Gateron Mars stand out as compelling options for enthusiasts who prefer linear typing experiences. The KTT Kang White is celebrated for its poppy aesthetic and dazzling auditory feedback, delivering an unparalleled smoothness thanks to its self-lubricating material, which contributes to a satisfying and effortless keystroke. Described as 'low-pitched' and 'neutral,' it provides a unique balance between silent functionality and a gratifying sound profile. On the other hand, Gateron Mars switches introduce an innovative design with their POK stem paired with a robust blend of Nylon and POM housing, promising durability and a distinct feel that sets them apart from traditional switches. While the Kang White excels in smoothness and auditory pleasure, the Gateron Mars is all about groundbreaking design and reliability. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Kang White and Gateron Mars switches, two distinct housing materials are utilized in the top sections of these switches. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which offers a crisp auditory experience when typing. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate further enhances its appeal, especially for users who enjoy RGB lighting configurations. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is traditionally recognized for its softer texture, which absorbs more sound and leads to a deeper, fuller auditory profile. This contrast between polycarbonate's clarity and nylon's warmth demonstrates how the choice of top housing influences the overall sound experience in each switch.
The bottom housing materials of the two switches offer a different comparison. The Kang White employs a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper sound profile similar to that of its nylon top counterpart. This echoes the general characteristic of nylon, which absorbs sound effectively, yielding a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing. POM, or polyoxymethylene, is known for delivering a unique sound profile that leans more towards muted tones. The combination of the nylon in the Kang White and the POM in the Mars introduces a variation in sound depth and quality, reflecting how different material choices for the bottom housing can influence the overall auditory sensation when typing.
In summary, the differing housing materials in the KTT Kang White and Gateron Mars switches create distinct sound profiles, particularly due to the contrast between the firmness of polycarbonate and the softness of nylon. When considering the combined effects of each switch’s top and bottom housing, users can expect a blend of acoustic qualities—specifically, sharper sounds from the polycarbonate top paired with a more resonant bottom effect from the nylon. Meanwhile, the Gateron Mars combines the softer top sound of nylon with the more muted characteristics of POM on the bottom, creating a unique auditory experience altogether. Thus, while each switch offers different material advantages, both can yield satisfying results through their particular sound characteristics when experienced during use.
Weight
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users can expect a consistent typing experience when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, the Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating that it requires a heavier push to fully depress the switch, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch lacks available data on its bottom out force, making it difficult to assess its overall pressing resistance. Given the known values, the Kang White is the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, while the Mars might be perceived as lighter or comparable depending on its undisclosed bottom out force. For users seeking prolonged typing sessions, the Kang White offers a balanced medium force, while those who favor a heavier feel may prefer its functionality, contrasting with the uncertainty surrounding the Mars switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the facts are quite clear. The KTT Kang White features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mars has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Kang White provides a more traditional and deeper feel, potentially appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. In contrast, the Gateron Mars, with its shorter 3.6 mm travel distance, may cater more to gamers or those who favor rapid keystrokes and quicker response times. Thus, for individuals seeking a more tactile depth in their typing experience, the KTT Kang White is the preferred choice, whereas users aiming for efficiency and speed might opt for the Gateron Mars.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 the sound profile, the KTT Kang White linear switch stands out with its low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics. The low-pitched tone offers a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience, which can be especially appealing for users looking for a quieter keyboard operation that still provides pleasant acoustic feedback. This is complemented by its neutral sound level, making it suitable for a variety of environments—from the home office to shared workspaces, catering to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch does not have specific sound descriptions available, leaving an unknown gap in its auditory presentation. However, the overall sound may vary based on factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap selection.
In terms of feel, the KTT Kang White switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, attributed to its self-lubricating materials. This creates a fluid typing experience that many users appreciate, especially during extended typing sessions, as it minimizes friction and enhances comfort. The exact feel of the Gateron Mars switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the unique design comprising a POK stem and a blend of Nylon and POM may suggest a different tactile experience that could potentially cater to users looking for a switch that feels distinct from more traditional linear switches.
In summary, while the KTT Kang White linear switch is recognized for its pleasing sound quality and exceptional smooth feel, the Gateron Mars switch presents an unknown auditory profile and unspecified tactile feedback, making it a less predictable choice for newcomers. Ultimately, if you favor a delightful auditory experience and smooth typing, the Kang White is a strong option. Meanwhile, the Gateron Mars’s unique construction hints at an innovative feel, but you'll need to test it to understand how it compares. Whichever you choose, be aware that the overall performance can also depend on your keyboard setup, so consider personal testing for the best decision.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the KTT Kang White and Gateron Mars linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams that offers a balance between tactile feedback and prolonged comfort, the Kang White is an excellent option, particularly if you value an exquisite typographic experience characterized by its smoothness and low-pitched sound profile. This makes it suitable for both gaming and office use without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, if you’re intrigued by innovative designs and are looking for something distinctive, the Gateron Mars may catch your interest, especially given its unique POK stem and Nylon-POM housing, which promise a different typing experience, although specific sound characteristics are not detailed. Ultimately, if you prioritize smoothness, sound quality, and a medium force feel, the Kang White will likely serve you best, while the Mars might appeal to those looking for novelty and innovation in switch technology.
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