KTT Matcha vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the KTT Strawberry are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Matcha is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable and snappy tactility, making each keystroke satisfying. Furthermore, it boasts a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Strawberry is a linear switch known for its smooth actuation and comfortable feel. With its pink and clear housings, it not only looks attractive but also offers reliable performance. The Strawberry switch is low-pitched and has a frictionless, silky feel, often described as buttery and polished.
Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with each press and appreciate a distinct bottom-out sound, the Matcha might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if smooth actuation and a comfortable typing experience are your priorities, the Strawberry switch would be a perfect fit. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the KTT Matcha and the KTT Strawberry switches are made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. Thus, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal due to their identical top and bottom polycarbonate housings.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Matcha or Strawberry switch, the impact and resulting sound will primarily be influenced by the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key will be more influenced by the characteristics of the top housing. This means that the overall sound experience may vary slightly between the two switches, depending on the specific combination of top and bottom housing materials used.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha and KTT Strawberry switches share the same polycarbonate housing materials, which contribute to a sharp, higher-pitched, and clear sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also enhances the switches' aesthetics, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. However, if there are differences in the top and bottom housings of a switch, the impact and sound experience when pressing down or releasing a key may be influenced differently. Nonetheless, both switches will deliver comparable results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Matcha offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lower weight is advantageous for individuals who prefer a lighter keyboard for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Strawberry provides a slightly more substantial typing feel with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. While still considered medium weight, the Strawberry switch offers a stronger push sensation compared to the Matcha. Both switches have their merits, catering to different preferences. Those seeking a lighter touch would appreciate the Matcha, while individuals desiring a more substantial typing experience would find satisfaction with the Strawberry.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance between the top and bottom position. Therefore, both switches offer a consistent tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the Matcha or Strawberry switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 Matcha tactile switch offers a clacky experience. This means that when you press the switch, you'll hear a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch produces a low-pitched sound. This type of sound is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the actual sound you'll hear also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose. However, based on the available information, if you're looking for a sharper and more distinctive sound, the Matcha would be your go-to option, while the Strawberry will provide a more mellow and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle experience. Stepped switches have a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a mild tactile sensation. The snappiness of the Matcha is due to its longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel lively. The accentuated tactility of these switches falls between a medium tactile and scratchy switch, providing a prominent amount of tactile feedback without overwhelming or subtlety. Additionally, the feathery and subtle characteristics of the Matcha make it exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. These switches provide an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance or friction when pressing the keys. They also offer a sleek and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Based on these descriptions, if you prefer a tactile switch with more noticeable feedback and light actuation, the Matcha would be a good choice. Conversely, if you prefer a linear switch with a smoother and more polished feel, the Strawberry would be a suitable option.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha provides a clacky sound with a comfortable, snappy tactility, resulting in a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. Its feel is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, making it suitable for those looking for light actuation and a more noticeable tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Strawberry offers a low-pitched sound with a smooth actuation and reliable performance. It provides a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, ensuring an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Based on these qualities, it's clear that the Matcha and Strawberry switches differ in terms of preferred sound and feel. However, both switches will offer a satisfying typing experience in their respective categories, so you can expect similar results depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a comfortable and snappy typing experience, the KTT Matcha is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a light and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Matcha's distinct clean bottom-out sound adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is a perfect fit. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a medium actuation force that feels comfortable and reliable. The Strawberry's low-pitched sound adds a pleasant and mellow tone to your typing. Ultimately, whether you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy feel or a linear switch with a frictionless and silky typing experience, both the KTT Matcha and KTT Strawberry have their unique qualities that cater to your preferences and needs.
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