KTT Miaowu vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and KTT Strawberry are two popular options to consider. The Miaowu switch is a linear switch that stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to the use of POK in its stem. Known for being 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch, also a linear switch, is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With its attractive pink and clear housings, this switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. While the Miaowu switch offers a bouncier and clackier typing experience, the Strawberry switch provides a smoother and silkier feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and KTT Strawberry both utilize polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches with clear housings, as it enhances the translucency and is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material.
In terms of sound and feel, the KTT Miaowu's nylon bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu will affect the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile while typing, whereas the top polycarbonate housing will still enhance the overall sound quality when letting go of a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Miaowu and KTT Strawberry ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a similar crisp and clear sound profile, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry imparts a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Whether you prioritize a rounder sound profile with the Miaowu or a sharper sound profile with the Strawberry, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the same at 43 grams. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Miaowu has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter compared to the Strawberry with a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Miaowu may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming. In contrast, the Strawberry's heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial feel for those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, the Miaowu has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry, providing a faster response time that gamers may prefer. On the other hand, the Strawberry's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Miaowu being slightly shorter than the more traditional 4.0mm distance of the Strawberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which provides a sharp and snappy tone when pressed, giving off a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is recognized for its low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by these switches can vary.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel, offering rebound when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. These descriptors highlight an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance and friction when pressing the keys. The switch offers a fluid travel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
In conclusion, while the KTT Miaowu and KTT Strawberry linear switches differ in sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. The Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Strawberry switch offers a low-pitched sound and a smooth, frictionless typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a snappy sound with a lively feel or a mellow tone with a silky, buttery touch, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches showcase KTT's commitment to innovation and quality in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy feel with a clacky sound, the Miaowu switch may be more suited to your typing style. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a frictionless, silky, buttery, or polished feel with a low-pitched sound, the Strawberry switch may be the better choice for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when making your decision.