KTT Rose vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Rose and the Gateron Smoothie stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Rose switch is renowned for its beautiful design and unique typing experience, thanks to its progressive springs that offer a substantial yet not heavy feel while typing. With a sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops, the Rose switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a more affordable option without compromising on quality, boasting a thocky sound signature, unparalleled smoothness, and a lightweight touch. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky', the Smoothie switch provides a different typing experience compared to the Rose. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and Gateron Smoothie switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Rose's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches utilize materials that are aesthetically pleasing, with the Rose's polycarbonate being translucent for RGB lighting and the Smoothie's POM offering a unique sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Rose's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also produces a deep and muted sound, providing a consistent sound profile across the switch. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, enhancing the sound and feel of each keystroke.
When comparing the two switches, it is clear that the differing top and bottom housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles. The Rose's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balanced and clear sound, while the Smoothie's POM housing materials offer a deeper and more muted sound. Whether you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches provide a unique typing experience that is influenced by their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Rose and Gateron Smoothie will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the actuation force is unspecified. In contrast, the Smoothie switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Smoothie switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, which could result in a more effortless typing experience for some users. However, the Rose switch may provide a more substantial typing feel due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users favoring a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Smoothie the shorter option, with a shallower travel distance compared to the Rose. The Rose, on the other hand, offers a slightly longer travel distance which some users may find more satisfying in terms of keypress depth. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the Rose. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, producing bassy raindrop-like tones. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky sound signature with a low-pitched and subdued quality, giving off a rich and satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Rose offering a mellower tone while the Smoothie provides a more substantial and satisfying sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Rose linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless, effortless, and exceptionally smooth typing sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Rose falling in the safe middle-ground zone and the Smoothie providing a luxurious and smooth keystroke experience.
Overall, both the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Rose switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience, the Smoothie switch offers a thocky and subdued sound signature with a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches deliver exceptional performance, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying and comfortable typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the KTT Rose if you seek a medium-heavy typing experience with a unique bassy raindrop sound profile and a polished feel that falls within the mild typing spectrum. On the other hand, select the Gateron Smoothie if you prefer a switch with a lightweight touch, thocky sound signature, and a buttery, creamy, or silky feel. The Smoothie offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and provides a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, so choose based on your preferences for typing force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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