TTC Bluish White vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the tactile thrill of the TTC Bluish White and the smooth glide of the Cherry MX Orange. The Bluish White switches cater to those who crave a poppy typing experience, characterized by a snappy sound profile that delivers tactile feedback with every keystroke. This makes them ideal for typists who enjoy a pronounced feel when typing, enhancing both accuracy and satisfaction. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches offer a linear experience, designed to provide a smoother, quieter stroke without the tactile bump, appealing to gamers and typists who prefer rapid, uninterrupted key presses. Each switch brings unique advantages: the Bluish White for its engaging tactile feedback and sound, and the MX Orange for its seamless operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and Cherry MX Orange switches represent two distinct approaches to switch housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Bluish White's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a crisper audio profile. This material is particularly beneficial when paired with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effects emanating from the switch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange uses a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition. This results in a more muted sound experience, absorbing vibrations and creating a deeper, fuller audio profile. The differences between these materials demonstrate how the choice of housing can cater to varying preferences in sound and aesthetic appeal.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a consistent auditory experience where sound dampening is concerned. Since nylon is effective at absorbing sound, both the TTC Bluish White and Cherry MX Orange provide a fuller, rounder sound when keys are bottomed out. This similarity ensures that while the top housing materials create distinct sound profiles—sharper for the Bluish White and deeper for the MX Orange—the overall experience when pressing the keys remains relatively aligned, thanks to the nylon bottom housings. Consequently, while the top and bottom housings contribute differently, gamers and typists can appreciate how the bottom housing balances out the acoustic characteristics.
Ultimately, the differences in material for the top housing play a pivotal role in shaping the overall sound and tactile feel of each switch. The unique attributes of polycarbonate in the TTC Bluish White help create a resonant and vibrant sound when keys are released, allowing users who favor a crisper auditory feedback to find satisfaction in its design. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange keeps the experience warmer and mellower due to its nylon top housing, making it ideal for those who prefer a soothing typing experience with less high-frequency sound. Nonetheless, the use of nylon in both bottom housings serves to harmonize their overall auditory output, demonstrating that varying overhead materials can lead to markedly different experiences while still allowing for a cohesive sound quality at the bottom-out point.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch display notable differences in their actuation forces, which greatly influence typing experiences. The Bluish White switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions without causing much fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier feel. However, the Cherry MX Orange's bottom out force is not specified, leaving that aspect unknown. Consequently, while the TTC Bluish White is advantageous for users seeking a lighter touch, the Cherry MX Orange may be favored by individuals who enjoy a firmer resistance when typing. Ultimately, this comparison underscores the importance of actuation force and bottom out characteristics in selecting the right switch based on personal preferences for typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there are notable differences. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This substantial difference may influence user preference based on tactile feedback and responsiveness; those who favor quicker response times may lean towards the Bluish White for its shorter throw, which allows for faster actuation. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, with its greater depth, might appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Overall, the TTC Bluish White is the shorter option, whereas the Cherry MX Orange is longer, catering to distinct typing experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch is characterized as having a low-pitched sound profile. This results in a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing, which can create a satisfying auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, there isn’t specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange switch. However, it’s important to note that sound can vary significantly depending on other factors, such as the keyboard construction and keycap choice, meaning users could still achieve a pleasant auditory experience with either option.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White switches offer a unique tactile experience. They feature qualities such as buttery smoothness, which provides a seamless and fluid keystroke. This is complemented by a mild nature that makes the overall typing experience approachable for most users. The switches also exhibit a stepped tactile response, meaning there are distinct stages in the keystroke that can enhance typing precision. Moreover, their subtle resistance makes them suitable for use in shared environments, as they do not produce a loud sound. In contrast, there is no specific information about the tactile experience of Cherry MX Orange switches, leaving their feel characteristics unknown.
Considering all available information, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch stands out for its combination of a pleasing low-pitched sound and a highly regarded tactile experience that boasts gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Without explicit details on the sound and feel of the Cherry MX Orange switch, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison. However, users looking for a satisfying typing experience will find the Bluish White switches provide a distinct advantage in terms of both audio and tactile quality. If the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a superior experience in some other latent way, it will likely still warrant a deeper exploration for those seeking alternatives.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light and responsive typing experience with tactile feedback, the TTC Bluish White is a terrific option. The switch's 50-gram bottom-out force ensures that keystrokes feel snappy, while the buttery, polished feel provides a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Furthermore, the low-pitched sound profile makes it an excellent choice for use in shared spaces, as it won't be overly disruptive. On the other hand, if you prefer a more consistent and straightforward keystroke without any tactile bump, the Cherry MX Orange is worth considering. Although its exact bottom-out force isn't specified, Cherry MX switches are known for their durability and quality, making them a reliable choice for both gaming and typing. The MX Orange's smooth action allows for rapid keystrokes, which is ideal if you're looking for a linear feel. In summary, choose the TTC Bluish White for a tactile, engaging typing experience, and go for the Cherry MX Orange when you want a seamless, linear stroke with a focus on performance.
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