KTT Rose vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and Gateron Weightlessness each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Rose, a linear switch, is celebrated for its beautiful design and impressive performance, featuring progressive springs that provide a typing experience that feels substantial yet effortless. This switch produces a soft, low-pitched sound, reminiscent of bassy raindrops, creating a serene ambiance for your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness is a tactile switch that delivers a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a bit of resistance while typing. Its balanced sound profile further enhances the experience, appealing to users who appreciate a sense of connection with each keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference; the KTT Rose is perfect for those seeking a smooth, linear feel, while the Gateron Weightlessness will attract those who prefer tactile stimulation. 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
50g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Rose's polycarbonate top housing with the Gateron Weightlessness's nylon top housing, distinct sound and aesthetic implications arise from the choice of materials. The KTT Rose's use of polycarbonate facilitates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This rigidity allows for a more resonant auditory experience that can be further enhanced by RGB lighting, especially when the switch features a clear top housing. In contrast, the Weightlessness's nylon construction produces a deeper, fuller sound profile characterized by a duller and rounder auditory output, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound. Therefore, while the KTT Rose may offer a more transparent sound, the Gateron Weightlessness provides a more muted and soothing auditory experience.
Looking deeper into the bottom housings of both switches, we find common ground. Both the KTT Rose and the Gateron Weightlessness employ nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity positions both switches similarly in terms of feel and dampening effect, as nylon's inherent characteristics allow it to absorb sound and reduce noise. Consequently, regardless of the differences in the upper housings, the shared nylon material in the lower section reinforces the overall performance and sound quality of both switches. Users can expect a softer bottom-out experience with a resonance that complements the tonal qualities from each switch's design.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials in the top housings of the KTT Rose and the Gateron Weightlessness offer unique signature experiences while the bottom housings harmonize their sound profiles. The KTT Rose emphasizes bright and clear tones thanks to its polycarbonate upper, whereas the Weightlessness showcases a more subdued sonic character due to its nylon top. However, with both using nylon for their bottom housings, players can anticipate a plush, dampened feedback, enhancing the tactile typing experience. Thus, while each switch presents its distinctive identities through housing materials, the shared characteristics of the nylon bottom housing introduce a layer of sonic coherence that can unify the types of experiences yielded from each switch.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy and providing a more substantial feel during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, which appeals to those who prefer a softer keystroke for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. However, the Weightlessness lacks a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to compare directly in that regard. Consequently, while the actuation force of the Rose is unknown, its heavier bottom out force suggests that it delivers a more tactile response compared to the lighter typing experience offered by the Weightlessness. Overall, the Rose is the heavier switch, ideal for users seeking a firmer typing experience, while the Weightlessness caters to those who favor lighter pressure for comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there is a notable difference in their travel distances: the Rose has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Weightlessness measures at 3.4 mm. This means that the Rose, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial feel as you press down on the key, catering to users who appreciate a hearty depth in their typing experience. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness is indicative of modern preferences, particularly among gamers who value quicker response times. The KTT Rose is the switch for those seeking a traditional, deeper feel, while the Gateron Weightlessness appeals to those who prefer a more responsive, albeit abrupt, keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the Rose is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone, often reminiscent of raindrops, which lends a satisfying acoustic depth while typing. Its neutral sound profile makes it versatile for various typing environments, whether at home or in an office. In contrast, while specific sound characteristics of the Weightlessness switches are not detailed, their balanced sound profile is designed to harmonize with their tactile feel, indicating that the sound may not be as pronounced or distinct as that of the Rose. Thus, if you prefer a bass-heavy typing experience, the Rose shines in this regard, while the Weightlessness may offer a more understated auditory feedback.
Regarding tactile feel, the KTT Rose switches are described as offering a mild and polished experience. This means they provide a gentle, approachable typing experience while maintaining a smooth key travel thanks to their refined finish. The use of progressive springs aids in creating a substantial feel without being overwhelming. The Weightlessness switches, however, are noted for offering a subtle to moderate tactile sensation, which suggests a more restrained tactile feedback compared to switches that are heavily tactile. This characteristic makes both switches suitable for users seeking comfort, but the Rose's polished feel provides an extra layer of smoothness that may appeal more to those looking for seamless keypresses.
In summary, the KTT Rose linear switch stands out for its rich, low-pitched sound and polished tactile experience, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate a deeper acoustic feedback combined with smooth key travel. The Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, while less defined in sound and feel, offers a subtler tactile quality that may complement a more understated typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel, as both can provide quality typing experiences, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use cases. If you find satisfaction in a typing experience that strikes a balance between being solid yet not overly heavy, the KTT Rose would be an excellent choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, combined with its polished feel and low-pitched sound, creates an inviting atmosphere for both work and leisure. The mild and bassy sounds while typing can be quite enjoyable, making it suitable for long writing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler tactile feedback and a switch that complements diverse sound profiles without being intrusive, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch should be your go-to option. Although it lacks a specified bottom-out force, its moderate tactile feel can be beneficial for those who enjoy a more refined typing experience. Additionally, if you value a quieter setup, the balanced sound profile of the Weightlessness can enhance your environment, making it ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming. Ultimately, your selection should reflect your typing style and the ambiance you wish to create in your keyboard experience.
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