Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Kang White offer unique experiences for users to explore. The Aliaz stands out for its tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience, especially in office settings. The medium-heavy weight of the Aliaz switches provides a satisfying feel with each keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White features a linear design that delivers a delightful typing sound and unmatched smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a low-pitched sound and a neutral typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Kang White switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Aliaz utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Kang White uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material would impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of both the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Kang White suggests the use of polycarbonate, which is known for its translucency. This makes the switches ideal for use with RGB lighting setups. However, the use of different materials for the bottom housing (polycarbonate for Aliaz and nylon for Kang White) would affect the typing experience. The Aliaz's stiffer polycarbonate in the bottom housing would likely result in a crisper and more resonant bottom-out sound, while the Kang White's softer nylon would produce a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Kang White switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel. The Aliaz's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a consistently sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, appealing to those who enjoy a fuller sound profile while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities due to their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is clear that the Aliaz is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams compared to the Kang White's lighter actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 58 grams. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Kang White offers a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have similar characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with consistent performance whether they prefer a lighter or heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and keypress feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both provide a similar keypress experience in terms of travel distance. This means that users can expect consistent tactile feedback and key actuation depth regardless of which switch they choose. It is worth noting that while they have the same travel distance, the Aliaz offers a tactile response, while the Kang White is a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a standard travel distance, allowing users to tailor their keyboard to their preferred typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter option in shared spaces like offices. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a soothing typing environment suitable for various settings. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences depending on personal preference and surrounding noise levels.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke with minimal resistance. While specifics on the feel of the KTT Kang White switch are unknown, its self-lubricating material promises unmatched smoothness during typing. This feature is likely to provide a comfortable and effortless typing experience for users seeking a linear switch option.
Taking into account the information provided, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in offering a medium-heavy weight with a substantial feel, ideal for those seeking pronounced typing feedback. Its muted sound profile further enhances the typing experience in quieter environments. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch stands out with its dazzling sound and self-lubricating material for smooth key presses. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a variety of options based on their typing needs. Ultimately, whether choosing the Aliaz or the Kang White switch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the KTT Kang White linear switch, you should think about your environment and preference for typing feedback. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a heavier keystroke with minimal noise, the Aliaz switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying sound of a poppy linear switch and appreciate a smooth typing experience, the Kang White switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the atmosphere in which you will be using the keyboard.
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