Cherry MX Silent Red vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red and KTT Rose linear switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience compared to its counterpart, the MX Red, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the KTT Rose offers a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with progressive springs, along with a visually appealing design. While the MX Silent Red is described as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Rose is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that may suit different typing preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Rose, one can see a clear distinction in their sound profiles due to the difference in materials used. The MX Silent Red, with its nylon top housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Rose's polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. The nylon material of the MX Silent Red absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Rose produces a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the MX Silent Red and the KTT Rose utilize nylon material, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the switches. However, the difference in top housing material between the two switches may lead to a noticeable variation in sound when releasing a key. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches reinforces the importance of this material in creating a specific sound profile for mechanical keyboard switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Rose play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the use of nylon in the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, the difference in top housing material gives each switch its unique sound characteristics. Users seeking a duller and rounder sound may prefer the MX Silent Red with its nylon top housing, while those looking for a sharper and crisper sound may gravitate towards the Rose with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the auditory experience of typing on mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Rose linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the KTT Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Cherry MX Silent Red's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the KTT Rose switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Cherry MX Silent Red may be preferred by those who like a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer different options for those who prefer varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly shorter than the KTT Rose linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the MX Silent Red offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the KTT Rose provides a bit more depth in the key press, which may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may lead to different user preferences in terms of key response. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and quick key presses or a more tactile typing experience with a bit more key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and thocky typing experience with low-pitched tones, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch also produces low-pitched tones but with a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound, but the MX Silent Red excels in minimizing noise, while the Rose offers a balanced sound that should satisfy most users.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, providing a unique tactile experience for users who appreciate a bit of friction when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a comfortable typing session. While the MX Silent Red switch may appeal to users who enjoy a tactile response, the KTT Rose switch provides a more refined and gentle typing experience that should cater to a broader audience.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and KTT Rose switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter typing experience with its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, along with a textured feel that adds a tactile element to typing. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch offers a more neutral sound profile with low-pitched tones, paired with a mild and polished feel that promotes smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, particularly in noise-sensitive environments, then the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a keyboard switch that offers a uniquely substantial typing experience with a bassy raindrop sound, the KTT Rose linear switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silent typing experience (MX Silent Red) or a more tactile and bass-heavy typing experience (KTT Rose) in your mechanical keyboard setup. Consider your sound and feel preferences before making a final choice between these two switches.
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