KTT Rose vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Rose switch is praised for its progressive springs that provide a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, along with a low-pitched and polished sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise. Each switch brings its own set of advantages, making them appealing options for different typing styles 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Rose uses nylon while the Zero Degree 0° also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound profile, the KTT Rose and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will offer different experiences due to their housing materials. The Rose's polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on a key, while the nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0°, with both polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, will likely deliver a similar sharp sound profile when typing, but with a slightly different resonance and overall feel.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Rose and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics due to their housing materials, with the Rose focusing on a sharper and crisper sound profile from the polycarbonate top housing, and the Zero Degree 0° providing a balance between the sharpness of polycarbonate and the deeper tones of nylon in both the top and bottom housings. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch, with subtle differences in sound and feel based on the housing materials used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences for users. The KTT Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience without a specified actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° switch may appeal to users seeking a smoother and quicker keystroke, ideal for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Rose switch may offer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that the Rose has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Rose being slightly on the longer side and the Zero Degree being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Zero Degree for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Rose switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, resulting in a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability. The lack of specific descriptors for the sound of the Zero Degree switch suggests that it may have a unique sound profile that is best experienced first-hand.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key press that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the Rose switch enhances the overall typing feel, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. As for the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, specific descriptors for the feel are not provided, indicating that it may have a unique feel that sets it apart from other linear switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Rose switch excels in providing a low-pitched and neutral sound along with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree switch focuses on silent typing with its innovative design, but specific details regarding sound and feel are not provided. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider what attributes are most important to you. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a mild, polished typing feel, then the Rose switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value silent typing, unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel with no bottom out force, then the Zero Degree 0° switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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