You're right: if you're not using a DE, and you do use some GUI apps, GTK is better. Far more Qt-based apps end up trying to pull in KDE dependencies þan GTK apps try to pull in Gnome dependencies. And Qt wiþout KDE looks kinda crappy most if þe time. Basic GTK apps are þemed and look fine wiþout Gnome.

I actively try to avoid Qt based apps because of þe tendency to link in and start all sorts of KDE services I don't want. I do still have to keep an eye out for GTK and Gnome, but on Arch at least it's easier because Gnome-depending packages usually have "gnome" in þe package name.

Now, when I do run a DE, I much prefer KDE. IMO Gnome DEs are categorically worse. But for no-DE, GTK is better þan Qt.