KTT MoonRosa vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options often come to mind: the KTT MoonRosa, a linear switch, and the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch. The MoonRosa switch is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer a mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press key feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Browns are known for their subtle tactility and gentle typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a textured, bassy, and low-pitched switch. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT MoonRosa and the Cherry MX Brown switches both aim to create a deep and pleasing sound profile, but they achieve this in slightly different ways. The MoonRosa utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the MX Brown uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
In terms of housing materials, the POM used in the MoonRosa switches is said to create an incredibly pleasing sound profile, while the nylon used in the MX Brown switches is considered a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches that use POM, like the MoonRosa, results in a deeper and more muted sound, while typing on switches with nylon, like the MX Brown, produces a fuller and deeper sound profile. The differences in sound that these housing materials create can provide users with a varied typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
While the housing materials of the MoonRosa and MX Brown switches differ, ultimately, they both aim to create a unique sound profile that enhances the user's typing experience. Whether it's the POM top and bottom housing of the MoonRosa or the nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Brown, these materials have been chosen to provide a deep and pleasing sound when typing. Despite the differences in material, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction when typing on either switch, as both have been designed to offer a satisfying and unique sound profile.
Weight
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. The MoonRosa gives a gentler typing experience with less resistance, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the MX Brown offers a bit more resistance, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have similar actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either option.
Travel distance
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The MoonRosa's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the MX Brown's longer travel distance provides a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately depends on personal preference whether you prefer the shorter distance of the MoonRosa or the longer distance of the MX Brown.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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 MoonRosa linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a soothing typing experience with a bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound, emphasizing depth and richness during key presses. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience, making them suitable for shared or quiet environments. Remember, sound perception can also vary based on keyboard configuration and accessories used.
When it comes to feel, the MoonRosa linear switch provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, offering minimal resistance during key presses for effortless typing. The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as textured, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the smooth and gentle feel of the MoonRosa switch, while others might enjoy the tactile feedback of the MX Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, both the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MoonRosa switch is known for its buttery smooth typing experience and low-pitched sound, the MX Brown switch stands out for its gentle tactility and bassy audio feedback. Whether you prefer a quiet and easy-to-press switch like the MoonRosa or a textured and tactile switch like the MX Brown, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option. Experimenting with different switches can help you determine which one best suits your preferences and enhances your overall typing comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the MoonRosa switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you like a slightly heavier bottom out force, gentle tactility, and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switch is a solid option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you while typing. Happy keyboard-switch hunting!
Mentioned in this article
