Gateron Type L vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type L and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Type L and the KTT Wine Red both offer unique qualities to consider. The Gateron Type L, a linear switch, stands out for its lightness, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and its sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red, another linear switch, offers a pillowy light typing feel and a rich sound profile. While the Type L is described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press', the Wine Red is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. 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
38g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Type L and the KTT Wine Red, it is evident that there are significant differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Type L's nylon top and bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound, with a duller and rounder quality due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Wine Red's polycarbonate top and bottom housings result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, offering a more clear and resonant profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. These differences in sound profiles make each switch unique in its auditory experience.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Type L and Wine Red also share some similarities. Both nylon and polycarbonate are commonly used in switch housings for their durability and reliability, making them ideal choices for mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Wine Red allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience. While the sound profiles may differ, the quality of these materials ensures a high standard of performance and longevity for both switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Type L and KTT Wine Red housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. If a deeper, fuller sound with a rounder quality is preferred, the Type L's nylon housing may be the better option. For those who enjoy a sharper, crisper sound with a clear and resonant profile, the Wine Red's polycarbonate housing would be more suitable. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type L linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is lighter in both categories. The Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Wine Red switch would be the preferred choice. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Type L being the lighter option and the Wine Red offering a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type L linear switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect to feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the Type L and Wine Red switches will provide a similar typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70, 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Type L offers a more neutral and subdued profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that delivers a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and setups, with the Type L leaning towards a more subtle and moderate sound, while the Wine Red offers a more pronounced and bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Type L switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red switch is not provided, it can be inferred that it offers a pillowy light type feel, suggesting a comfortable and cushioned typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel, ensuring comfort and ease of use during prolonged use.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Gateron Type L linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery feel like the Type L or a bassy and rich sound with a pillowy light type feel like the Wine Red, both switches provide unique typing experiences that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that you will get a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Type L linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, you would want to choose the Type L if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a neutral or subdued sound profile, and a feathery or easy-to-press feel. The Type L's lightness and subtle sound make it a versatile option for various typing scenarios. On the other hand, you would opt for the Wine Red if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, a bassy or low-pitched sound profile, and a pillowy light type feel. The Wine Red offers a deeper and richer typing experience that some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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