KTT Matcha vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the KTT Rose are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for typists. The Matcha is a tactile switch that is best known for its comfortable and snappy tactility. Typing on the Matcha provides a satisfying feedback and produces a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Rose is a linear switch that stands out for its visual beauty. However, there is more to the Rose switches than meets the eye. These switches utilize progressive springs, resulting in a typing experience that is substantial yet not heavy. Typing on the Rose switches evokes the sound of bassy raindrops. While these general descriptions provide an overview of the switches, it is important to dive deeper into their characteristics to determine which one is the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Rose differ in terms of their bottom housing. The Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Rose uses a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic creates a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Rose elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will differ due to the contrasting bottom housing materials.
Both the KTT Matcha and the KTT Rose share the same polycarbonate top housing, which brings similar qualities to both switches. The polycarbonate material used in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Its stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, while the bottom housing materials may differ, the sound experience when pressing down on the keys will have similar qualities due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
When it comes to the release sound of the keys, the impact of the housing materials differs. The top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound when you let go of a key. Given that both the Matcha and the Rose have a polycarbonate top housing, the sound when releasing a key will have similar characteristics for both switches. However, the bottom housing material of each switch will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper bottom-out sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Rose produces a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. Thus, there will be noticeable differences in the bottom-out sound and feel between the Matcha and the Rose switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Matcha has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, which means it requires a gentle push to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force of 45 grams indicates that it is still on the lighter side when it comes to the force needed to press the keys all the way down. In contrast, the Rose switch does not have a specified actuation force, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force of 63.5 grams suggests that it requires a higher amount of force to fully depress the keys, making it a medium-heavy switch.
In terms of weight considerations, the lighter actuation force of the Matcha switch may be favored by those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, which is especially beneficial for individuals using the keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who desire a more substantial typing feel, the heavier bottom out force of the Rose switch might be more suitable. This provides a stronger push and a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying.
While the actuation force of the Rose switch is unavailable, it is safe to say that it would likely require a stronger push compared to the Matcha switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Rose switch is noticeably heavier at 63.5 grams, indicating a more significant resistance when fully pressing down the keys. Ultimately, the selection between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style, with the Matcha offering a lighter touch and the Rose providing a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and sensation when pressed. The 4 mm travel distance refers to the distance the switches travel from the top to the bottom, which is the distance that users feel when they press down on a key. Therefore, whether you choose the Matcha or the Rose switch, you can expect to experience a consistent travel distance and feel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 comparing the sound of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Rose switches, the Matcha is known for producing a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that can be described as clacky. On the other hand, the Rose switches have a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. This results in a typing experience that resembles the sound of bassy raindrops. Additionally, the Rose switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate sound with a balanced tone. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used, which may produce variations in sound. Overall, the Matcha switches provide a clacky sound while the Rose switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Matcha switches are known for their stepped, snappy, and accented tactile feel. Stepped switches provide a two-stage tactile feedback, offering a more mild experience compared to hypertactile switches. The snappy feel of the Matcha switches is due to their longer or dual-staged springs, which adds responsiveness and liveliness to the typing experience. These switches provide a comfortable level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Additionally, the Matcha switches are feathery, meaning they are exceptionally light to press and require little exertion from the fingers. This makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Rose switches offer a mild typing experience with a gentle feel. They fall within a safe middle-ground zone, offering a more approachable typing experience to most users. The Rose switches are also described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Overall, the Matcha switches provide a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery tactile feel, while the Rose switches offer a mild and polished typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Matcha and the KTT Rose switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switches provide a clacky sound with a clean bottom-out sound due to their long pole stem. They offer a tactile feel that is stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switches have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, resembling bassy raindrops. They offer a mild typing experience with a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, if you prefer a clacky sound and a tactile feel, the Matcha switches would be a suitable choice, while if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a mild feel, the Rose switches would be a good option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy typing experience, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a light and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Matcha also boasts a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy feel, the KTT Rose is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a unique and substantial typing experience, accompanied by a bassy raindrop sound. Additionally, the Rose switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. Ultimately, both switches have their own standout features and it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
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