KTT MoonRosa vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style, the KTT MoonRosa and the Gateron Weightlessness offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The MoonRosa, renowned for its all-POM construction, delivers a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and easy-to-press feel, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize fluidity and speed in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness provides a tactile bump that offers a more engaging typing experience, striking a balance between subtlety and feedback, which many typists appreciate for its responsiveness. The Weightlessness’ balanced sound profile further enhances the tactile experience, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of audio feedback as they type. Both switches have their merits—be it the smoothness of the MoonRosa or the tactile cues of the Weightlessness—yet, 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT MoonRosa and the Gateron Weightlessness switches, the differences between the two become apparent. The MoonRosa features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housing, which is known for producing a unique and satisfying sound profile. This profile tends to be deeper and more muted, contributing to a less intrusive auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness opts for a nylon top and bottom housing, which is celebrated for its classic properties that generate a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon helps to absorb sound more effectively than the harder POM, resulting in a sound that is rounder and perceived as less harsh.
Both switches, despite their varying materials, can evoke similar auditory characteristics thanks to the underlying principles of their design. The deeper sound profile is a common trait, with both housings designed to provide a pleasing experience for typists. In the MoonRosa, the POM material imparts a distinctive sound that may resonate with users who prefer a more muted experience, while the nylon in the Weightlessness provides a warmth that appeals to others. The shared goal of creating a satisfying typing sound unites both switches, despite the different materials used.
When it comes to the impact of these materials on tactile feedback and sound production, the contrasting properties of the two types of plastic play significant roles. The MoonRosa's POM housing is likely to deliver a more pronounced bottom-out feel, particularly because both top and bottom contributions are on the muted side. In contrast, the softer nylon used in the Weightlessness could provide a more cushioned experience, which would affect the typing sensation, albeit still maintaining a full sound profile. Thus, while the KTT MoonRosa and Gateron Weightlessness employ different materials, they ultimately cater to users seeking similar sound outcomes, with each offering its own unique tactile and auditory attributes.
Weight
When comparing the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The MoonRosa features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, which makes it easier for users to press the keys, thereby allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. Its bottom out force is at 45 grams, meaning it requires slightly more force to press the key all the way down. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. However, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch is unknown, which makes it difficult to draw a full comparison on the feel at the end of the keypress. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter touch would lean towards the MoonRosa, while those who favor a stronger, more forceful keystroke would likely find the Gateron Weightlessness more appealing.
Travel distance
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that pressing down on the MoonRosa will yield a deeper feel compared to the more abrupt sensation of the Weightlessness switch. For users who favor responsiveness and quicker actuation, the Weightlessness may be the preferred option due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses might find the MoonRosa more satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches fall within a relatively close range, the MoonRosa provides a slightly longer travel distance, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
The KTT MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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 KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, their sound characteristics present a notable difference. The MoonRosa switch is known for its low-pitched sound, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it quieter yet pleasant during typing sessions. This can create an unobtrusive typing environment, especially in shared spaces. Conversely, while the Gateron Weightlessness switches have a balanced sound profile that complements their tactile nature, the specific sound characteristics are less defined, leaving some unknowns as to how they compare sonically. However, both switches will likely produce distinct audio profiles influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the MoonRosa offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, characterized by its easy-to-press nature. It requires minimal force to activate, which greatly enhances comfort and minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Such a design is tailored for those who prioritize light actuation and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Weightlessness switches present a subtle to moderate tactile feel. While they also aim to provide comfort, the tactile feedback of the Weightlessness will give typists a different sensation compared to the smooth action of the MoonRosa. The tactile bump can provide a satisfying yet varying degree of resistance that some users might find engaging, making the typing experience unique.
In summary, the KTT MoonRosa and the Gateron Weightlessness differ significantly in their sound and feel attributes. The MoonRosa’s low-pitched sound and smooth action make it ideal for users seeking a quiet and effortless typing experience. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness switches, featuring their subtle tactile feedback, offer a different tactile sensation that can be appealing for those who enjoy feeling the actuation. Whether you prefer the quiet efficiency of the MoonRosa or the tactile engagement of the Weightlessness, both switches can cater to specific preferences, allowing users to select based on their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a light and easy-to-press switch that delivers a smooth, low-pitched sound with minimal resistance, the MoonRosa is likely your best option. Its gentle actuation and buttery experience make it ideal for long typing sessions or casual gaming, where you want to minimize finger fatigue and enjoy a comfortable feel. Conversely, if you appreciate a tactile response that provides feedback without being too pronounced, the Gateron Weightlessness could be more appealing. The subtle to moderate tactile feel is well-suited for those who want to feel a distinct bump while still enjoying a balanced sound profile. This makes it a suitable choice for typing tasks that require a bit more precision or for mixed-use scenarios that incorporate both typing and gaming. By considering these qualities, you can select the switch that enhances your keyboard experience according to your personal preferences and needs.