KTT Lightning vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the KTT MoonRosa each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lightning is renowned for its speed and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge with its clacky sound profile and quick actuation. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch is praised for its smooth typing experience and easy-to-press keys, perfect for those who prioritize comfort and a quiet typing environment. 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and MoonRosa both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Lightning stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the MoonRosa's POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Lightning's polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant profile, while the MoonRosa's POM offers a pleasing and unique tone. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the overall experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the KTT Lightning and MoonRosa take different approaches to sound production. The Lightning's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the MoonRosa's POM bottom housing also delivers a deep and muted sound, contributing to its overall pleasing sound profile. While the bottom housing material may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing material can influence the sound when releasing a key, making both components equally important in the overall typing experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the KTT Lightning and MoonRosa both prioritize creating a unique and high-quality sound profile for users. While the Lightning offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the MoonRosa provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Similarly, both switches deliver a deep and pleasing sound with their respective bottom housing materials, whether it be nylon for the Lightning or POM for the MoonRosa. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics, with each offering a distinct typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it is clear that both switches are on the lighter side in terms of force required for typing. The Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MoonRosa has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the MoonRosa is slightly lighter in both categories compared to the Lightning. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming, both of these switches would be suitable choices. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier force, they may prefer the Lightning over the MoonRosa. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the MoonRosa switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch. Overall, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Lightning switch may be the better option, while if you prefer a slightly more substantial key press, the MoonRosa switch could be the choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer benefits in terms of travel distance, and users can expect similar results when typing or gaming with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88.
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 Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. Both switches have unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer a crisp and bright sound (Lightning) or a more mellow tone (MoonRosa).
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished typing experience, with gentle resistance and smooth key travel. This refined finish results in a sleek typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, with gentle resistance and minimal force required to activate the keys. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Lightning switch may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly heavier and polished feel, while the MoonRosa switch offers a gentle and effortless typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Lightning and MoonRosa linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper and snappier typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy sound with a gentle and easy-to-press typing feel, the MoonRosa switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth typing experience and excellent performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider the specific needs and preferences you have for your typing experience. If you prioritize speed and a more tactile typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth typing experience with a more neutral sound signature, the MoonRosa switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing sound, feel, and bottom out force. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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