Outemu Crystal Brown vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Rose offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Crystal Brown switch is a tactile switch, known for its precise feedback and satisfying bump when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is a linear switch with a unique typing experience thanks to its progressive springs, offering a substantial yet not heavy feel. While the Crystal Brown switch may be preferred by those who enjoy tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience, the KTT Rose switch appeals to users looking for a smoother, more consistent keystroke. 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
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Rose both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches results in a more resonant sound due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This shared housing material between the Crystal Brown and the Rose ensures a similar sound experience for users.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Crystal Brown and the Rose are made of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Despite having different bottom housings, both switches provide a unique typing experience due to the qualities each housing material brings to the overall sound profile.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the Crystal Brown and the Rose become more apparent. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in the Crystal Brown and the Rose respectively provides a dynamic sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Rose linear switch, which has an unspecified actuation force. However, the Crystal Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Rose's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that the Crystal Brown provides a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch needed to register keystrokes, while the Rose offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push required to fully depress the keys. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force for a more solid typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the physical feel of the switches. Although both switches offer the same travel distance, they differ in their tactile and linear properties, with the Crystal Brown providing a tactile feedback while the Rose having a linear actuation. Overall, while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the type of feedback they offer sets them apart in terms of typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10, 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches are known for providing a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches offer a low-pitched tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality that mimics the sound of bassy raindrops. Both switches will offer a pleasant auditory experience during typing, with the choice between a neutral tone and a bass-heavy sound depending on personal preference, keycaps, and keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches do not have a specific descriptor mentioned, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the KTT Rose switches are described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This suggests that the Rose switches provide a gentle and refined feel, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. The moderate actuation force requirement of the Rose switches ensures a comfortable typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone appreciated by many users. Overall, while the Crystal Brown switches may offer a different tactile feel, the Rose switches provide a polished and approachable typing experience that many users may find enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches and KTT Rose switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Brown switches provide a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, the Rose switches offer a low-pitched tone reminiscent of bassy raindrops. When it comes to feel, the Crystal Brown switches may have a unique tactile feel that is not explicitly described, while the Rose switches provide a mild and polished typing experience with smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, and the choice between them will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light tactile typing experience with a softer bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a unique progressive spring design that offers a satisfying typing experience without being overly heavy, the KTT Rose switches would be the way to go. Ultimately, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing sound, and key feel when deciding between these two switches.
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