Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular choices that offer a linear typing experience are the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Rose. The MX Black, known for Cherry's mastery in switch manufacturing, features the new Hyperglide tooling, resulting in a smooth and textured feel while typing. With a low-pitched sound profile, these switches are also characterized by their stiffness. On the other hand, the Rose switches from KTT may catch your eye with their elegant appearance, but there is more to them than meets the eye. By utilizing progressive springs, these switches offer a unique typing experience that is substantial without being heavy. The Rose switches emit a bassy raindrop sound when typing and are categorized as low-pitched and polished. Both switches have their own compelling qualities, making it difficult to choose between the two at a surface level. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the KTT Rose have different housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Rose utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. While the MX Black produces a softer and subdued sound, the Rose offers a more vibrant and pronounced sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the MX Black and the Rose make use of nylon material. As with the top housing, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will be quite similar. The shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience on both the MX Black and the Rose will have a similar acoustic quality.
The difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch has a notable impact on the overall feel and sound. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and tactile sensation. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing takes center stage, affecting the sound produced. Therefore, while the MX Black's nylon top housing may create a duller and rounder sound upon key release, the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose will result in a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the contrasting housing materials provide unique acoustic characteristics and contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Cherry MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which requires a relatively heavy push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the KTT Rose is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the bottom out force of the KTT Rose is 63.5 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Cherry MX Black's 80 grams.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter option like the KTT Rose. A lighter switch allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for those using their keyboard for extended periods at work or during gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Cherry MX Black for a more substantial typing experience. This heavier force provides a stronger push feel, which can be desirable for those seeking a tactile feedback while typing.
In summary, while the actuation force for the Cherry MX Black is heavier and known at 60 grams, the KTT Rose's exact actuation force remains unavailable. However, the KTT Rose does have a lighter bottom out force compared to the Cherry MX Black's 80 grams. Depending on individual preferences, one may opt for a lighter switch, such as the KTT Rose, for longer typing sessions, or choose the heavier actuation force of the Cherry MX Black for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth linear typing experience. Whether you choose the Cherry MX Black or the KTT Rose, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the KTT Rose comes in at $3.01.
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, both the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Rose switches have a low-pitched tone. Low-pitched switches generally have a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. However, the Rose switches also have a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switches have a textured and stiff typing experience. Textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users. However, others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, MX Black switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making them feel stiffer compared to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a more gentle typing experience, while a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, both the Cherry MX Black and KTT Rose switches have their unique qualities. The MX Black switches offer a classic textured smoothness, deep sound profile, and a stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switches provide a uniquely substantial yet not heavy typing experience, bassy raindrop sound, and a mild and polished feel. If you are someone who prefers a bass-heavy and mellow sound and a textured and stiff typing experience, the Cherry MX Black switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a bassy raindrop sound and a mild and polished feel, the KTT Rose switches would suit you better.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switch would be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a uniquely substantial typing experience and a bassy raindrop sound profile, the KTT Rose switch would be more suitable. In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched tone, but the Rose switch also offers a neutral sound profile that makes it suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the MX Black switch is textured and stiff, while the Rose switch is mild and polished, offering a more gentle and polished typing experience. Overall, the decision between the two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for weight, typing experience, and sound.
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