KTT Pine vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Pine and KTT Rose mechanical keyboard switches, two linear switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Pine switch is best known for its translucent, forest green design, and is characterized as medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction, resulting in smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Rose switch is as beautiful as its name suggests. It offers a unique typing experience thanks to the use of progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy feeling. The Rose switch is often described as producing bassy raindrop-like sounds when typing. While these general pointers provide an overview of the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the KTT Rose both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Pine and the Rose will offer similar sound profiles and visual effects when it comes to their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the two switches. The Pine utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Rose uses nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine enhances the impact and sound when pressing down on a key. Its stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Rose elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Rose switch.
In summary, both the KTT Pine and the KTT Rose share the same polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a similar and desirable sound profile. However, their bottom housing materials differ. The Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes the impact and sound when pressing down on a key, while the Rose's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing sound. Depending on your preference, you can choose between sharper and clearer bottom-out sounds with the Pine or a softer and rounder sound with the Rose.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Pine switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium level of resistance to trigger a keystroke, while the Rose switch does not specify its actuation force, so we are unable to make a direct comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Pine switch requires 58 grams of pressure to fully press down, which again falls into the medium range. The Rose switch, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier or medium-heavy.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer lighter switches may find the Pine switch more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards options with heavier forces, such as the Rose switch. It's important to note that if the actuation force for the Rose switch is similar to the Pine switch, then users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine and the KTT Rose linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of both switches ensures a consistent tactile experience for users. Whether you choose the Pine or the Rose, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels when pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the key presses produce a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch also has a low-pitched sound profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Rose switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Pine switch is known for its polished, factory-lubed finish, which minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users. The Rose switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Pine and KTT Rose linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy feel, while the Rose switch also has a low-pitched sound and a mild typing experience with a polished feel. Although they have some similarities, such as both having a low-pitched sound profile, the details mentioned highlight the distinct characteristics of each switch. Depending on personal preferences, the Pine switch might be favored by users who appreciate a deeper and richer sound with a smooth keystroke experience, while the Rose switch may appeal to those who prefer a more gentle typing experience with a polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its polished, factory-lubed finish minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. Additionally, the Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding depth and richness to your key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a more gentle typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch would be a suitable option. The use of progressive springs in the Rose switch provides a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. It also offers a low-pitched sound profile, giving your typing a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine and KTT Rose switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize smoothness and a deeper sound profile, go for the Pine switch. If you prefer a more gentle typing experience and a bass-heavy sound, the Rose switch would be a better fit. Whichever switch you choose, both the Pine and Rose deliver a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
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