Akko Rosewood vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Akko Rosewood and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice of mechanical keyboard switches can make a significant difference. The Akko Rosewood, known for its deep, satisfying "thocky" sound, provides a unique auditory feedback thanks to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate rich acoustics in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry steals the show with its attractive pink and clear housings, delivering a smooth actuation that many users find incredibly comfortable. The Rosewood's deeper tones appeal to enthusiasts looking for a robust sound profile, while the Strawberry's silky and polished performance caters to those who prioritize a frictionless, effortless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and the KTT Strawberry switches, it is evident that they utilize distinct plastics, resulting in different acoustic properties. The Rosewood features both a nylon top and bottom housing, which lends itself to a sound profile characterized by depth and fullness. Nylon, being a softer plastic, not only absorbs sound but also produces a more rounded and duller tonal quality. This makes the Rosewood switches ideal for users who prefer a more subdued and rich typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry is built with polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to its high-pitched and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness enhances resonance and clarity, creating a more vibrant and sharp auditory response when typing.
The aesthetic finish of both materials also sets them apart. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the KTT Strawberry allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it visually appealing for gamers and those who enjoy customization in their keyboards. In contrast, the solid appearance of nylon used in the Rosewood doesn't support such lighting effects, but instead offers a classic, understated look. While both switches have their unique visual and tactile distinctions, they cater to different preferences; the Rosewood targets those who appreciate a traditional typing experience and muted aesthetics, while the KTT Strawberry appeals to users interested in modern, illuminated designs.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches can achieve a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences. Users seeking a balanced combination of deep sound and full feedback may find joy in the Akko Rosewood's nylon composition, as it absorbs sound and provides a cushioned feel. On the other hand, typing enthusiasts who prefer a more pronounced and clear sound may lean towards the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate setup, which emphasizes a sharper auditory response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on the user's desired auditory feedback and aesthetic preferences, as each material brings its distinct qualities to the forefront.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Rosewood features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an appealing option for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to engage. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which offers a more substantial push feel for users who prefer a firmer typing experience. This means that while both switches provide a linear feel, the Rosewood is better suited for those who seek a lighter switch, whereas the Strawberry, being the heavier option, caters to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Overall, the differences in their force profiles indicate that the Rosewood is ideal for comfort during extensive use, while the Strawberry provides a weightier tactile feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect similar tactile feedback and response when pressing down on these keys. This equal travel distance ensures that both switches provide a comparable typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a consistent key feel. Since the travel distance is the same, users can achieve similar results in terms of key actuation and responsiveness when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
The KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 Akko Rosewood linear switch is known for its deep, satisfying thocky sound, a quality that many enthusiasts appreciate. This auditory characteristic is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which contributes to a more muted yet resonant experience when typing. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This softer sound can be appealing for users who prefer a quieter typing experience, though it’s important to note that the overall sound profile may also vary depending on the keyboard construction and keycap design you choose.
In terms of feel, the Rosewood switch does not have detailed subjective qualities provided, which leaves some aspects unknown. However, the KTT Strawberry switch is characterized by a range of attributes designed for a smooth and pleasant typing experience. Descriptions of the Strawberry include a frictionless action that minimizes resistance during key presses, a silky sensation that enhances overall smoothness, and a buttery, fluid keystroke that ensures an effortless typing experience. Additionally, its polished finish contributes to a refined feel, allowing for smooth key travel with less friction, making each keystroke a luxurious experience.
In summary, both the Akko Rosewood and KTT Strawberry linear switches provide enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences, with the Rosewood prioritizing a deeper, more resonant sound and the Strawberry excelling in providing a smooth and frictionless typing sensation. While the exact feel of the Rosewood remains uncertain due to a lack of detailed descriptors, users can expect a combination of satisfying auditory feedback from the Rosewood and silky, polished performance from the Strawberry. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can ultimately cater to different types of users and typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch should hinge on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you favor a lighter switch with a deeply satisfying thocky sound right out of the box, the Rosewood is likely your best bet. The 50g bottom-out force combined with its unique sound profile makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a punchy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. Conversely, if you’re looking for a medium-weight switch that offers a smooth and effortless actuation, the KTT Strawberry switch would be a great option. With its 62g bottom-out force, you can enjoy a more controlled and stable typing experience, complemented by its frictionless, silky, and buttery feel that enhances overall comfort during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a more robust sound and lighter action with the Rosewood or prefer the smooth, polished sensation of the Strawberry switch.
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