Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Matcha mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider the unique features of each that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz is renowned for its silent design, making it ideal for quiet environments such as the office. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, it offers a satisfying typing experience with a pronounced feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha stands out for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. Each switch has its own characteristics that appeal to different users, but diving deeper into the specifics will help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. The stiffness of polycarbonate also contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Matcha are similar in terms of using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, they may differ in how these materials affect the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction means that despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their housing materials, the overall typing experience may still vary between the two switches based on how these materials interact with the keystrokes.
Overall, the choice of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Matcha switches offers users a consistent and satisfying typing experience. The use of this material results in a clear and resonant sound profile, making typing on these switches an enjoyable and tactile experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Ultimately, while there may be subtle differences in how the housing materials affect the typing experience, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Matcha switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the Aliaz is heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams. In contrast, the Matcha is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Matcha offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Matcha, while those looking for a more tactile and heavy typing experience may lean towards the Aliaz. Both switches offer different levels of force, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Matcha tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Despite any other differences between the two switches, their travel distances are identical, resulting in similar keypress experiences for users. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant contrast between the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Matcha switches, as they both offer the same level of key travel.
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 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.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter experience compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it ideal for quiet environments like offices where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when keys are pressed. This results in a crisp and percussive sound that may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined feel with reduced friction. This results in a sleek typing experience that enhances overall smoothness. In contrast, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. This means it provides a two-stage tactile feedback, a super responsive typing experience, a medium amount of tactility, a light actuation force, and a gentle resistance for comfortable extended typing sessions.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is tailored for users who prioritize a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy weight for a substantial feel. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a distinct tactile feedback with a clean bottom-out sound and a variety of tactile qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a heavier keystroke with a substantial feel and quiet operation, the Aliaz may be the right choice for you, especially in office settings. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a muted and polished feel like the Aliaz, or a clacky and stepped experience like the Matcha. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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