Gateron Mini i vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and KTT Strawberry offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides gentle tactility with each keystroke, striking a balance between a muted sound profile and satisfying feedback. Ideal for office settings, these switches are lightweight and perfect for comfortable typing without the intrusive clack, appealing to those in need of quiet professionalism. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is a linear switch known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, these switches offer a low-pitched, frictionless typing experience that feels buttery and polished. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Strawberry have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and material properties. The Mini i features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in material composition leads to a noticeable contrast in the sound produced by typing on these switches.
While both the Mini i and the Strawberry have translucent housing options for RGB lighting, they utilize different materials to achieve this effect. The Mini i's nylon top housing maintains a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in material stiffness and sound characteristics can impact the overall typing experience for users who prioritize sound feedback and aesthetics. Moreover, the choice of top or bottom housing material can have a significant influence on the sound profile when typing on these switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Strawberry comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and material properties. While the Mini i's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, making it essential for users to consider which qualities are more important to them when selecting a switch for their keyboard setup. In cases where the top and bottom housings are different, users can expect a combination of the unique qualities each material brings to the sound profile and typing feel of the switch.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams, while the Strawberry needs 62 grams to bottom out. This means that the Mini i is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, if you prefer a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Mini i would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the KTT Strawberry for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the KTT Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mini i. If you are looking for a switch with a quicker response time, the Mini i may be the better option with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press with more depth, the KTT Strawberry may be the preferred choice. Both switches offer different advantages depending on the user's preferences, with the Mini i being the shorter option and the Strawberry being the longer option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral profile that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a low-pitched tone that adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Mini i being more versatile for different use cases.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press experience that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. The switch also maintains a mild and subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces like offices. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery feel that enhances smoothness and fluidity in typing. The polished finish of the switch further adds to the sleek typing experience it provides.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Mini i provides a balanced and versatile sound profile with a comfortable and easy-to-press feel, ideal for professional environments. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a more low-pitched sound with a smooth and frictionless typing experience that enhances typing fluidity. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, but both switches deliver quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a gentle tactile feedback without being too loud, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches are lightweight, easy-to-press, and provide a bouncy feel that is perfect for comfortable typing in a professional setting like the office. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be the way to go. These switches are frictionless, silky, and polished, offering a refined and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Mini i and KTT Strawberry switches will depend on your preference for tactility, sound level, and overall typing experience.
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