Outemu Tom vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and KTT Rose offer unique typing experiences for different preferences. The Tom switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Rose switch stands out for its smooth linear action, delivering a consistently seamless typing experience. While the Tom switch is categorized as tactile, the Rose switch offers characteristics such as being low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may suit your typing style better; however, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision on the switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the KTT Rose share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. The use of this relatively stiff plastic in the top housing contributes to a more resonant sound profile in both switches.
However, where the Tom and Rose differ is in their choice of material for the bottom housing. The Tom features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Rose also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics to the Tom. This material choice for the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the KTT Rose contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences in their choice of material for the bottom housing result in slightly varied sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile, both the Tom and the Rose offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, we can see a clear difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Tom has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. However, the bottom out force for the Tom is unknown, so it is unclear how much pressure is needed to fully press the key. On the other hand, the KTT Rose has an unknown actuation force, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Tom for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Rose for a more satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Rose linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical switches, but the Tom offers a slightly quicker keystroke due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Tom for its faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Rose. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom 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 Tom switch lacks a specific descriptor provided in the information, while the KTT Rose switch is known for producing low-pitched and neutral sound profiles. The Tom switch may have a more subjective sound characteristic, while the Rose switch offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone that resembles bassy raindrops when typing. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a descriptor provided in the information, while the KTT Rose switch is known for its mild and polished feel. A mild switch like the Rose offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, with qualities that fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of the Rose switch provides smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is clear that they offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch may provide a unique typing experience with unspecified sound and feel characteristics, the Rose switch stands out for its low-pitched sound and mild, polished feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Depending on personal preferences and typing requirements, both switches have their own strengths, with the Rose switch offering a more detailed and specific description of its qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize having a switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for a specific feature, the Tom may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are interested in a switch that offers a unique typing experience with bassy raindrop sounds, the Rose could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel, the Rose switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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