KTT Rose vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the KTT Rose and the Huano Sakura, both of which are exceptional linear switches but cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Rose stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its innovative progressive springs, which deliver a typing experience that feels substantial yet comfortably light. Users can enjoy a unique auditory profile characterized by bassy raindrop sounds, making each keystroke a bit more immersive. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura presents a feather-light touch, perfect for extended typing sessions without causing strain. This switch strikes a balance with medium acoustics, providing a satisfying middle ground between silence and audible feedback. While both switches have their merits—whether you seek beauty and auditory depth with the Rose or effortless keystrokes and comfort with the Sakura—choosing the right one ultimately depends on your specific needs and 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
N/A
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and Huano Sakura switches are constructed with distinct materials that significantly influence their acoustic properties and overall performance. The KTT Rose features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucent quality. This material offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke, particularly when illuminated by RGB lighting. In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which possesses a slightly higher coefficient of friction compared to polycarbonate. Although POK is celebrated for its smooth, clacky sound and remarkable durability, it may not achieve the same brightness in sound when it comes to resonance and clarity. Thus, while both materials contribute positively to the switches' overall acoustic output, the KTT Rose is likely to produce a more pronounced treble response than the Huano Sakura.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, both the KTT Rose and Huano Sakura utilize nylon, a classic choice in switch construction. Nylon is renowned for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared material leads to a consistent auditory experience between the two switches in terms of the lower-end sound, as nylon contributes to a more muted and rounder bottom-out feel. Consequently, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches provide a similar tactile and auditory experience when pressed down due to the nylon’s inherent properties.
Ultimately, when comparing the KTT Rose and Huano Sakura switches, the interaction of their respective top and bottom housing materials yields a balanced result. For both switches, the nylon bottom housing generates a rich, resonant sound profile, which is further shaped by their unique top materials. While the KTT Rose benefits from the brightness and clarity of its polycarbonate top, the Huano Sakura's POK top adds smoothness and durability, resulting in a distinctive, yet satisfying sound and feel. Therefore, even with differing top materials, the use of nylon in both designs ensures that users can enjoy a layered sound experience characterized by a full-bodied bottom-out sound combined with the distinct auditory traits afforded by the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences arise in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Rose has an actuation force that is unspecified (None grams), while the Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, making the Sakura more approachable for users who prefer switching keys with minimal effort. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Rose is measured at 63.5 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy, while the Sakura offers a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Rose provides a more substantial tactile experience due to its heavier forces, which may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer feedback while typing. Ultimately, for users who value lighter keys for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Sakura stands out as the more comfortable option, while those who prefer a more robust typing experience may favor the heavier feel of the Rose.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the KTT Rose has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura measures slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This means that the Rose offers a more traditional and deeper keypress experience, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a satisfying feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sakura's 3.6 mm travel distance caters more to users who prioritize responsiveness, making it better suited for fast-paced gaming scenarios where quicker actuation can enhance performance. Thus, the Rose provides a longer travel distance, while the Sakura presents a shorter option, appealing to different user preferences in terms of typing sensation and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 Rose switches produce a notably low-pitched auditory experience, often likened to the soothing tones of bassy raindrops. Their neutral sound profile strikes a fine balance, making them suitable for a variety of environments, from home to office spaces. The mid-range acoustics mean that they aren't overwhelmingly loud, making them a versatile choice for most typists. In contrast, the specifics of the sound profile for the Huano Sakura switches remain undetermined; however, given that they offer a feather-light touch and are designed for extended typing sessions, one might reasonably expect a softer, less intrusive sound, potentially placing them between a whisper and mid-level juiciness.
In terms of feel, the Rose switches excel with their mild and polished characteristics. This means they provide a gentle and refined typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. The polished quality indicates a smooth key travel that is both comfortable and satisfying, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. The feel of the Huano Sakura switches, however, is not detailed, leaving a gap in comparison. Still, given the feather-light touch they offer, one can intuit that they aim for a light and effortless experience, possibly prioritizing comfort in extended use, albeit without the polished feel of the Rose.
In summary, while both the KTT Rose and Huano Sakura switches bring unique traits to the table, the Rose is characterized by its rich, low-pitched sound and gentle, polished feel that cater to versatility and comfort. The Sakura, while promising in terms of a light touch ideal for long typing sessions, does not have enough detailed tangible qualities for an in-depth comparison. For those seeking similar typing experiences, the Rose switches will reliably provide a smooth and pleasant interaction, while the Sakura may offer an alternative for those prioritizing a lighter touch in their typing endeavors.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Rose and Huano Sakura linear switches, it's important to consider your typing preferences and what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy actuation force, the KTT Rose is an excellent choice. Its 63.5-gram bottom-out force and unique progressive springs provide a typing experience that feels grounded and satisfying, making it suitable for both extensive typing sessions and occasional gaming. The low-pitched sound profile adds a comforting bassiness that enhances the overall experience. However, if you find yourself gravitating towards lighter touches and quicker actuation, the Huano Sakura switches with their 45-gram bottom-out force will likely be more to your liking. Their feather-light touch and medium acoustics make them ideal for long typing hours without fatigue, perfect for those who prioritize speed and ease of use. Ultimately, your selection should reflect whether you seek a robust and grounded typing experience or a swift and effortless one.
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