Gateron Type S vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're delighted to introduce the Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' Project Rehash, known for its innovative factory lubing techniques that rejuvenate classic travel distances and molds. The Type S offers a weightier 65g bottom-out, appealing to those who prefer a more robust keystroke. With a sound signature that strikes a pleasing balance between neutral and deep, the Type S is categorized as neutral and subdued. On the other hand, we love the intoxicating Wine Red switches, known for their pillowy light feel and rich sound profile. The Wine Red switches provide a satisfyingly deep typing experience and are categorized as bassy and low-pitched. Each switch has its unique strengths and appeals to different preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Type S features a nylon top and bottom housing, whereas the KTT Wine Red utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Type S provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material used in the Wine Red. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Wine Red produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonant sound of the switch. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Wine Red allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
In terms of sound characteristics, the nylon housing of the Type S creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition, while the polycarbonate housing of the Wine Red generates a more clear and resonant sound profile from its stiffer plastic. The translucency of the polycarbonate material in the Wine Red's housing is especially beneficial for those who want to utilize RGB lighting, adding a unique visual element to the switch. Despite their differences, both housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the Type S offering a deeper typing experience and the Wine Red providing a sharper and crisper typing feel.
While the Type S and Wine Red housing materials differ in composition and sound characteristics, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities to be felt when using the switches: the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon housing in the Type S or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Wine Red, both switches offer unique advantages based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Type S linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Wine Red linear switch. The Type S requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch only needs 44 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer use, the Wine Red switch may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Type S switch would be the preferred choice. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in the typing experience and should be considered based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type S linear switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a consistent and responsive feel when pressed down. This means that whether you choose the Type S or the Wine Red switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. In terms of typing comfort, both switches provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with their respective 4 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force or sound profile rather than travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Type S 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Type S linear switch to the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their sound profiles. The Type S offers a more neutral and subdued acoustic experience, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wine Red provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, whether they prefer a neutral and subdued tone or a bass-heavy and mellow sound.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the information provided for the Gateron Type S and KTT Wine Red is not available. However, based on the descriptions of the Type S offering a weightier keystroke and the Wine Red providing a pillowy light type feel, one can infer that the Type S may offer a more tactile and pronounced typing experience compared to the softer and lighter feel of the Wine Red.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type S linear switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. The Type S is renowned for its neutral and subdued sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a balanced acoustic experience, while the Wine Red stands out for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, users can expect satisfying results in terms of sound and feel with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke, then the Type S with its 65g bottom-out force would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Wine Red with its 55g bottom-out force would be more appropriate. Additionally, consider the sound profile that appeals to you - the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound, while the Wine Red provides a bassy and low-pitched tone. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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