KTT Strawberry vs. Gateron Weightlessness

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Strawberry and the Gateron Weightlessness present two distinct options that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The KTT Strawberry, with its attractive pink and clear housing, is celebrated for its silky smooth actuation and polished performance, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a frictionless typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a moderate tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy and provides a satisfying feel with each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a bit of resistance while typing. While both switches boast excellent reliability, the Strawberry stands out for its buttery smoothness, whereas the Weightlessness is favored for its balanced sound and tactile characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Strawberry Linear

Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$4.91 per 10

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and Gateron Weightlessness switches, one of the most notable distinctions lies in the choice of plastics used in their construction. The KTT Strawberry features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which is characterized by its rigidity and clarity. This specific plastic contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more resonant and crisp typing experience. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for a vibrant display that appeals to aesthetic preference. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its softer texture. This difference leads to a rounder, deeper sound that absorbs more vibrations, creating a more muted auditory feedback that some users may prefer for a softer typing experience.

The impact of these various materials extends beyond the sound; it also deeply influences the tactile feedback experienced by users. In the case of the KTT Strawberry, the stiffer polycarbonate allows for a more pronounced keystroke, which can impart a sense of precision and responsiveness. Conversely, the nylon housing of the Gateron Weightlessness yields a more cushioned feel during typing, which proponents often cite as more comfortable for prolonged usage. This means that while the KTT Strawberry may appeal more to those who desire an active and high-energy feel, the Gateron Weightlessness may be better suited for individuals prioritizing a softer touch. Ultimately, the contrasting qualities of these materials result in various user experiences that cater to different preferences.

Despite these differences in housing material, the two switches share a fundamental aspect in their construction that can foster similar results. Both switches are designed to optimize the sound and feel based on the interaction between their top and bottom housings. For users who experiment with these switches, they will find that the overall typing sound and experience will vary according to personal preferences, but can still yield satisfactory results. For instance, switching between the clear polycarbonate of the KTT Strawberry and the plush nylon of the Gateron Weightlessness will allow individuals to explore a wide range of auditory profiles. Although the intrinsic qualities of nylon and polycarbonate are distinct, users who appreciate both switches' foundational goals can curate their setup to align with their style, achieving an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the chosen material.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Strawberry linear switch to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, which can influence user experience. The Strawberry features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, compared to the heavier 50 grams of the Weightlessness. This difference may make the Strawberry more suitable for prolonged typing sessions, as its lighter weight can reduce finger fatigue. However, the Weightlessness offers a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Interestingly, the Strawberry also has a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a defined tactile feedback when the key is fully engaged. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness remains unknown, making it difficult to assess its full tactile response at the bottom of the keystroke. Overall, for those who lean towards a lighter switch, the KTT Strawberry would be the better choice, while the Gateron Weightlessness appeals to those who favor a heavier touch.

Travel distance

The KTT Strawberry linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that the KTT Strawberry provides a more substantial key press, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness, with its shorter travel distance, may be more suitable for gamers or individuals who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes that facilitate rapid input. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference—if you enjoy a hearty feel when typing, the KTT Strawberry is the way to go, whereas if you prioritize speed and efficiency, then the Gateron Weightlessness would be a better fit.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience that many users find enjoyable and less jarring during extended typing sessions. The sound profile complements its smooth operation, making it a pleasant choice for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch does not have a specific sound descriptor listed, but its balanced sound profile is designed to complement its tactile feel. Therefore, while the Strawberry provides a distinctly low-pitched sound, the Weightlessness may still offer a non-intrusive auditory experience, emphasizing that the overall sound can also be influenced by factors like board construction and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the KTT Strawberry switch truly stands out with descriptors such as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, all of which indicate an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This switch ensures minimal resistance during key presses, which many typists appreciate for its ability to enhance typing speed and comfort. The effortless fluid travel adds to the overall enjoyment, making it a prime candidate for users seeking a seamless keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch is noted for a subtle to moderate tactile feel, although specific descriptors regarding its tactile qualities are not provided. This suggests that while it aims to offer noticeable feedback during key presses, it may not achieve the same ultra-smooth sensation that the KTT Strawberry delivers.

In summary, both the KTT Strawberry and Gateron Weightlessness switches have their unique strengths. The Strawberry excels in sound and feel with its low-pitched, smooth characteristics, making it a favored choice for those who prioritize quiet, fluid typing. The Weightlessness offers a balanced sound profile and a tactile feel that, while not as explicitly described, suits those who appreciate tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer an ultra-smooth, linear experience or a more tactile sensation, but both switches have the potential to provide satisfying typing experiences based on individual preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, your choice should depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth, frictionless experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Strawberry is an excellent option. Its medium actuation force of 62 grams provides a balanced feel that is both comfortable and reliable for extended typing sessions, making it ideal for typists and gamers who appreciate a seamless keystroke. On the other hand, if you enjoy a subtle tactile feedback while typing, the Gateron Weightlessness switch may be more suitable for you. Although its bottom-out force is undetermined, its balanced sound complementing its tactile characteristics might appeal to those who prefer a more nuanced typing feel without the overwhelming resistance. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a smooth linear action or a tactile sensation, ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.91 per 10

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Gateron Weightlessness Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more