KTT Strawberry vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Strawberry and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The KTT Strawberry is a linear switch that is beloved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, also a linear switch, stands out for its innovative design that reimagines traditional travel distances and factory lubing techniques. While the KTT Strawberry is known for its low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, the Gateron Type A is categorized as having a neutral and subdued sound signature. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Type A uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the polycarbonate in the Strawberry provides a clear and resonant sound, the nylon in the Type A absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Strawberry and Type A switches offer unique characteristics based on their top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Strawberry enhances the clarity and sharpness of its sound profile, suitable for users who prefer a crisper typing experience. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Type A contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more muted and rounded typing sound. These distinct qualities showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and the Gateron Type A differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, both switches ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp and crisp sound profile of polycarbonate in the Strawberry or the deep and full sound profile of nylon in the Type A, the unique qualities of each housing material cater to different preferences. Overall, the top and bottom housings play a crucial role in influencing the sound and feel of a switch, showcasing the importance of housing material selection in designing mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Strawberry has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, the Strawberry has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams. Despite these differences, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light category. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the pressure required to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Strawberry for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Type A for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is important to note that both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their similar travel distances. This means that whether you choose the KTT Strawberry or the Gateron Type A, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. So, whether you are typing on the Strawberry or the Type A, the travel distance will be the same, providing a consistent feel and performance for users of both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched tone that provides a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound, creating a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. Ultimately, your choice of sound preference will come down to personal taste, as both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch boasts a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and friction. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not explicitly described, so it may not offer the same level of smoothness and fluidity as the Strawberry switch. If a similar typing experience to the Strawberry is desired, opting for switches with similar descriptors such as "frictionless" and "silky" would be recommended.
In conclusion, both the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Strawberry switch offers a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, smooth typing experience, the Type A switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile with unknown information on feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, as well as considerations for overall keyboard setup and usage.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you should choose the Strawberry if you prioritize a medium bottom-out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a frictionless, silky, buttery, or polished typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Gateron Type A if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force, a neutral sound profile with subdued tones, and a switch that offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing purposes. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what specific typing experience you are seeking.
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