KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Weightlessness

Overview

When it comes to choosing a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Weightlessness each provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Matcha is celebrated for its comfortable and snappy tactility, making it a delight for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile response. Its long pole stem not only contributes to a clean bottom-out sound but also enhances the overall typing experience, appealing to both gamers and typists alike who enjoy an engaging keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness strikes a balance with its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, offering a more understated typing sensation that may be preferable for users who favor a quieter, yet satisfying keystroke. While the Matcha switches are known for their clacky and feathery feel, the Weightlessness promotes a balanced sound profile that can minimize distraction in quieter environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Matcha Tactile

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Weightlessness switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their top housings. The KTT Matcha utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. This choice is particularly beneficial for achieving a clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness is crafted from nylon for its top housing, which offers a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience. Thus, the tonal characteristics of the two switches diverge significantly based on their top housing materials, catering to different user preferences in sound and aesthetic appeal.

In terms of bottom housings, the KTT Matcha once again employs polycarbonate, reinforcing the sharper sound experience by maintaining the same material consistency from the top to the bottom. This ensures that the qualities of the bottom housing, including the bottom-out sound and feel, resonate with a similarly clear and crisp signature, creating a cohesive sound profile. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness continues to use nylon for its bottom housing. This choice enhances the soft and rounded auditory profile already established by the top housing, resulting in a harmonious consistency in sound that is distinctly warmer and more subdued. The interplay between the different materials drastically affects the overall user experience, as the bottom housing delivers the essential feedback during key presses.

Ultimately, while both switches feature distinct materials in their top and bottom housings, the sound profiles they produce can be understood through their respective compositions. The KTT Matcha's dual polycarbonate construction promises a brighter and sharper acoustic experience, ideal for users seeking clarity, while the Gateron Weightlessness, with its consistent nylon use, leads to a deeper and more immersive typing experience. If a user desires a synthesized result from the Matcha's components, they should expect an overall cutting tone with a pronounced sound upon key release, whereas choosing the Weightlessness will yield a fuller auditory experience on both presses and releases. While the differences are notable, achieving similar responses in clarity and warmth ultimately depends on the specific combinations of materials chosen throughout the switch design.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are distinct differences in actuation force, though the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is unknown. The Matcha features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a less strenuous experience during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Weightlessness has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience with more resistance. The Matcha's bottom out force is 45 grams, providing a definitive tactile response once fully pressed, while the Gateron Weightlessness's bottom out force remains unspecified, making it difficult to gauge its performance fully. Consequently, users who appreciate a lighter typing experience should lean towards the Matcha, while those who desire a heavier switch for added push feedback might opt for the Weightlessness.

Travel distance

The KTT Matcha tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Matcha switch offers a more traditional, heartier feel, appealing to those who enjoy the depth and resistance of a longer travel distance. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch, with its 3.4 mm travel distance, caters to users seeking a quicker response time, which is often favored by gamers who prefer a more rapid actuation. Therefore, if you prioritize a deeper feel in your key presses, the KTT Matcha would be the better choice, while the Gateron Weightlessness is optimal for those who prefer a snappier, less abrupt keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is renowned for its clacky profile, producing a sharp, crisp, and bright sound with each keystroke. This distinctively clean bottom-out sound is a hallmark of its long pole stem design. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch is characterized by a more subtle sound profile that balances well with its tactile feedback. While the Matcha may captivate those who appreciate an auditory response that is lively and pronounced, the Weightlessness offers a quieter operation, making it suitable for shared environments where sound can be a concern.

In terms of feel, the Matcha switches deliver a nuanced typing experience, featuring a stepped action that provides a clear tactile bump. This is complemented by a snappy response that makes each keystroke feel engaging and dynamic. The combination of accented tactility and a feathery light actuation force enhances comfort, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the specifics of the Weightlessness' feel remain unknown. However, its design intention suggests a balanced and user-friendly experience, likely appealing to those who prefer a softer tactile response without sacrificing the essence of tactile feedback.

In summary, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch excels in delivering a sharp sound and an engaging, responsive feel, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a more subdued auditory experience paired with an equally effective but less-defined tactile response. The Matcha’s pronounced sound and dynamic feel make it a standout choice for those seeking excitement in their typing experience, while the Weightlessness caters to individuals who prioritize a muted operation with a comfortable touch. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, albeit with distinctly different auditory and tactile qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences, typing habits, and intended use. If you enjoy a more responsive and lively typing experience with a distinct tactile bump, the KTT Matcha is an excellent choice. Its light 45-gram bottom-out force means you can type quickly with less effort, making it ideal for longer sessions such as programming, writing, or gaming. The clacky sound profile adds a fun auditory element, perfect for those who appreciate a bit of feedback with every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile sensation and a balanced sound experience, the Gateron Weightlessness might be more suited to you. As it offers a moderate tactile feel, it’s better for a quieter environment, making it a great option for office settings or shared spaces where minimal sound disruption is a priority. Moreover, its unknown bottom-out force could suggest a more nuanced typing experience that might appeal to users seeking something that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and comfort. Ultimately, your unique typing style and the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard will guide your decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more