Gateron Mars vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Gateron Mars and the KTT Strawberry, both linear switches that offer distinct characteristics and user experiences. The Gateron Mars switches are crafted with an innovative design, featuring a unique POK stem and a durable housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, which gives them a reliable feel and performance. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switches are visually appealing with their attractive pink and clear housings and are celebrated for their smooth actuation and plush comfort, aligning them with descriptors such as 'low-pitched,' 'frictionless,' 'silky,' and 'buttery.' While the Mars offers a robust and long-lasting option, the Strawberries excel in providing an effortlessly enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and KTT Strawberry switches differ significantly in their housing materials, which results in contrasting acoustic characteristics and overall typing experience. The Mars utilizes a nylon top housing that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature. This material absorbs sound effectively, creating a mellower auditory experience that many users find appealing for a quieter and less intrusive keystroke. Contrarily, the KTT Strawberry features a polycarbonate top housing known for its sharper, crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, leading to a typing experience that is more pronounced and lively, appealing to users who prefer clear feedback from their switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the differences continue, further shaping the sound and feel of each switch. The Mars sports a POM bottom housing which is renowned for producing a muted and pleasing sound profile, contributing to its overall depth. This combination of a nylon top and POM bottom allows for a sound that is cohesive yet distinct. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry also employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, solidifying its high-pitched sound profile. This uniform material across both sections of the switch reinforces the clarity and bright resonance that typists can experience. Consequently, while users of the Strawberry can expect a consistent auditory tone, those with the Mars will enjoy a blend of deeper sounds due to the combined effects of nylon and POM.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials mean that the Gateron Mars and KTT Strawberry switches offer unique tactile experiences. For typists who favor a deep, muted keystroke, the Mars delivers with its nylon and POM configuration. The KTT Strawberry, on the other hand, caters to those who thrive on a more energetic and clear sound profile with its polycarbonate materials. If one were to seek similar auditory results across varied materials, careful pairing of components and customization such as the addition of dampeners could help achieve a closer tonal quality. However, the inherent properties of each material will always yield a distinct character at the core of each switch's performance.
Weight
The Gateron Mars linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This makes the Strawberry the lighter option between the two, which can be advantageous for users seeking a more effortless typing experience during extended sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Mars switch is unknown, whereas the Strawberry has a defined bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a firmer resistance once fully pressed down. Therefore, while both switches provide a linear feel, the KTT Strawberry offers a lighter actuation experience but requires a heavier force to bottom out, whereas the Mars switch's bottom out force remains undefined. Users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the heavy feel of the Strawberry, while those prioritizing comfort over longer periods may find the Mars switch appealing, provided they prefer its actuation characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Gateron Mars features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Strawberry has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive typing experience typical of modern switches, the Mars may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Strawberry’s longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feel during key presses, appealing to those who favor a deeper sensation in their typing experience. Overall, the Gateron Mars is the shorter option, while the KTT Strawberry is the longer switch, catering to different preferences in the realm of keyboard switches.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 Gateron Mars switch does not have a specific acoustic profile detailed, leaving its auditory quality largely unspecified. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, which tends to produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This trait may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience that isn’t overly harsh or sharp, although the switch's sound characteristics can also be influenced by the keyboard it is paired with and the keycaps used.
When examining the feel of each switch, the Mars switch lacks a definitive description, making it difficult to ascertain its tactile qualities. However, the KTT Strawberry excels in this aspect, offering a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. Users of the Strawberry can expect an exceptional smoothness across key presses, which minimizes resistance and enhances the overall flow of typing. Such attributes make it highly enjoyable for prolonged use, contributing to a refined and effortless typing sensation.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars switch lacks detailed information about its sound and feel, the KTT Strawberry switch shines with its low-pitched sound and remarkable smoothness in typing experience. For those seeking a reliable and pleasant typing sensation, the Strawberry is a standout option, whereas the Mars switch’s unknown qualities leave room for exploration. If you find yourself drawn to either switch type, it's essential to keep in mind that the overall performance can be influenced by your keyboard setup and personal preferences, ensuring that whichever switch you choose can still yield satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars and the KTT Strawberry linear switches, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and force feedback. If you prioritize a lightweight switch with an innovative design that promises a unique typing experience, the Gateron Mars could be your go-to option. However, keep in mind that specific details about its bottom-out force and sound characteristics are vague, which may impact its overall appeal for some users. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force that provides a comfortable and smooth typing experience, the KTT Strawberry is the clear winner. Its low-pitched sound and remarkably frictionless, silky, and buttery feel can enhance your typing, making it particularly suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you crave a potentially innovative yet uncertain experience with the Mars or a proven, reliable feel with the Strawberry.
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