KTT Rose vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and KTT Wine Red are two popular options that offer distinctive typing experiences. The Rose switches are best known for their beautiful design, but their appeal goes beyond aesthetics. With the use of progressive springs, these switches provide a uniquely substantial typing experience without being too heavy. Users have described the sound of typing on Rose switches as reminiscent of bassy raindrops. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer an intoxicatingly light typing feel, paired with a deep and rich sound profile that is satisfying to the ears. While the Rose switches are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Wine Red switches are known for being bassy and low-pitched. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and the KTT Wine Red both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is particularly useful for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through and create visually appealing effects.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Rose utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing. This means that the polycarbonate material in the bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to what is experienced when pressing down on the keys.
When using these switches, the different properties of the top and bottom housing materials become noticeable. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on a key. The nylon bottom housing in the Rose contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Wine Red complements its sharp and resonant sound. On the other hand, the top housing material will have more impact on the sound produced when you release a key. In this case, both switches benefit from the polycarbonate material, creating a clear and distinct sound when the key is released.
In summary, while the top housing materials of the KTT Rose and the KTT Wine Red are the same, their bottom housing materials differ. This results in the Rose offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Wine Red delivers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. However, both switches share the benefit of using polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a clear and resonant sound when keys are released. Whether you prefer a dulled round sound or a sharper sound will depend on your personal preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The actuation force of the Rose switch is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, the Wine Red switch has an actuation force of 44 grams, which is lighter in comparison. This lighter actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless keystroke and a quicker response time. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Rose switch is 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Wine Red switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. Therefore, those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Rose switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and whether one values a lighter or heavier feel during typing. In either case, both switches offer a range of forces that cater to varying preferences, allowing users to achieve similar results based on their specific needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive when it comes to the distance traveled from top to bottom. When pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users will experience the same tactile sensation and feedback. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences regardless of whether the Rose or Wine Red linear switch is used. So, in terms of travel distance, the Rose and Wine Red linear switches offer comparable results for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Rose comes in at $3.01, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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
In terms of sound, the Rose switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which gives them a bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. This creates a pleasing and calming auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a deep and rich sound profile with a lower frequency range. This results in a satisfyingly deep and rich sound similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches have a low-pitched sound, which means that they will provide a similar experience in terms of sound. However, it's essential to note that the sound also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Rose switches are described as mild, providing a more gentle and approachable typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They fall into a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most users. Additionally, the Rose switches are polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is due to either the materials used or factory lubing, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, no specific information is available about the feel of the Wine Red switches. However, based on the description of them being "pillowy light," it can be inferred that they offer a comfortable and light typing experience, possibly similar to the smoothness of the Rose switches.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Rose and KTT Wine Red switches have distinct sound and potentially similar feel qualities. The Rose switches provide a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow. They also offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches have a deep and rich sound profile, possibly resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Although the feel of the Wine Red switches is not explicitly described, their "pillowy light" nature suggests a comfortable and light typing experience.
Overall, both switches seem to offer desirable qualities, albeit with slightly different sound profiles. If you are looking for a typing experience with a deeper and richer sound, the Wine Red switches might be more suitable. However, if you prefer a more balanced and mellow sound, along with a gentle and smooth feel, the Rose switches would be a great choice. As always, personal preference plays a significant role, so it is recommended to try both switches and determine which one aligns better with your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a uniquely substantial typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch is a great choice. The progressive springs in the Rose switches provide a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, resembling bassy raindrops. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a medium-heavy typing experience that feels substantial but not too heavy. The Rose switch also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a pillowy light type feel, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is perfect for you. The Wine Red switches offer a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range akin to bass tones. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it provides a medium-light typing experience that feels comfortable and responsive. The Wine Red switch also has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall enjoyment of typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Rose and Wine Red switches depends on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Both switches are excellent options with their own unique qualities, so it's worth considering what you prioritize in terms of feel and sound before making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
