KTT Pine vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both switches offer a smooth typing experience and are ideal choices for those looking for a quieter keyboard option. The KTT Pine is praised for its medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth key travel, making it a favorite among typists seeking a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness and stability while also reducing noise. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° deviates with its nylon bottom housing, offering a unique sound profile. The split between housing materials affects how the switch feels and sounds when typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction allows users to experience a variety of sound profiles within a single switch, depending on the housing material used for the top and bottom.
In terms of sound characteristics, the Pine and Zero Degree 0° switches differ slightly due to their housing materials. The Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper sound, while the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing produces a deeper tone. However, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, offering a consistent crisp and resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feel, with the housing materials playing a significant role in the overall experience.
Weight
The KTT Pine linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when comparing their bottom out forces, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of keypress resistance. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the lighter actuation force of both switches may provide similar results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Pine switch has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a little more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Zero Degree switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Zero Degree switch, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys may opt for the KTT Pine switch. In general, both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance, with the Pine being slightly longer than the Zero Degree switch, providing users with different options based on their preferences.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors mentioned, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Pine switch emphasizing a buttery and creamy feel, creating a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. The Zero Degree 0° switch is touted for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which contribute to unparalleled smoothness and stability, absorbing sound and reducing noise. Overall, while the sound qualities may differ between the two switches, their emphasis on smoothness and typing comfort suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of feel and typing experience from both the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a bassy sound profile, the KTT Pine linear switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an innovative self-padding design, unparalleled smoothness, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you value most.
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