KTT Wine Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Wine Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Wine Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Wine Red switch is praised for its pillowy light typing feel and deep, rich sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bassy and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch by Gateron stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing a smooth and stable typing experience with reduced noise. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal 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
44g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Wine Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness, making it resonate clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing as well, which shares similar sound characteristics and aesthetic qualities as the Wine Red.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The KTT Wine Red utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the sharp and resonant sound profile associated with polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° features a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This variation in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience on each switch.
In terms of functionality, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Wine Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will affect how the switches feel and sound during use. The bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these distinctions, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience, making them suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for variety in their setups.
Weight
The KTT Wine Red linear switch is slightly lighter than the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch in terms of actuation force, with the Wine Red at 44 grams and the Zero Degree 0° at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Wine Red is also lighter at 55 grams compared to the unknown force of the Zero Degree 0°. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Wine Red may be the better option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch might be more suitable. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users the option to choose based on their personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Wine Red switch falls on the more traditional side with a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feeling when pressed. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prefer a deeper feeling key press or a quicker response time. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of the travel distance, you can expect a similar typing experience with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
The KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 KTT Wine Red linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is marketed for its silent typing experience, absorbing sound and reducing noise thanks to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure. While the Wine Red provides a satisfyingly rich sound, the Zero Degree 0° focuses more on creating a quiet and smooth typing experience, catering to those who prefer a quieter environment.
As for feel, the Wine Red switch is known for its pillowy light type feel, which can provide a soft and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch boasts an elastic feel that absorbs sound, delivering smoothness and stability during key presses. Both switches aim to offer a pleasant typing sensation, with the Wine Red leaning towards a lighter touch and the Zero Degree 0° prioritizing stability and smoothness.
In conclusion, the KTT Wine Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Wine Red provides a deep and rich sound profile along with a comfortable typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on creating a silent and stable typing environment. Depending on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different needs and provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Wine Red or the Zero Degree 0°, you can expect quality and performance in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering which switch to choose between the KTT Wine Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, the Wine Red switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value silent typing, smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Zero Degree 0° switch is the better option for you. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience and needs.
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