TTC Honey vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the TTC Honey and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Honey switch is known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a luxurious typing experience. Additionally, it offers a deep and pleasant sound profile that adds to the overall satisfaction of using this switch. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g. This makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged sessions. With a tactile force of 50g, it also provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide which switch is best suited for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the KTT Phalaenopsis, particularly the polycarbonate top and bottom housings, share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. This stiffness also creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a crisp and satisfying typing experience. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for users seeking to customize their keyboard's illumination.
However, despite these similarities, the Honey and Phalaenopsis may have differences in their housing materials. If the top and bottom housings vary between the two switches, it means that the distinctive qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. While pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the sound and feel of the switch's bottom-out action, influencing the overall tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing will primarily affect the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the switch's auditory characteristics.
In conclusion, both the Honey and Phalaenopsis benefit from the use of polycarbonate housing materials, resulting in similar sound profiles. The differences, if any, in their top and bottom housings may impact the overall typing experience by allocating specific qualities to different aspects of the switch's movement. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to individual preferences regarding bottom-out feel, sound when releasing a key, and the desired aesthetic appeal offered by the polycarbonate material.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent resistance when fully pressed down. However, in terms of actuation force, the Honey switch requires 42 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Phalaenopsis switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches offer a suitable option with their relatively low actuation forces. These lighter forces can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming, as they require less effort and can help reduce fatigue. However, for those seeking a more substantial push feel, the Honey switch would provide a slightly stronger tactile experience due to its higher actuation force. This can be preferred by individuals who desire a more pronounced and responsive key press.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference. If weight is a crucial factor, both switches can provide similar results with their identical bottom out forces. However, those in favor of a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Phalaenopsis switch, while those desiring a slightly heavier typing experience may find the Honey switch more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Honey switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Phalaenopsis switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Honey switch is slightly shorter than the Phalaenopsis switch. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch might be appealing. On the other hand, some people may find that the longer travel distance of the Phalaenopsis switch provides a more satisfying and deep typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 Honey switch has a subdued sound profile. This means that it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch has a bassy and thocky sound. Bassy switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, a thocky switch produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a soft "knock" or deep "thud." However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished qualities. The creamy feel of these switches is attributed to the smooth and buttery typing experience they provide. This can be due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on these switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys effortlessly, with each keystroke melting into a seamless and uniform sensation. Additionally, the Honey switch offers a frictionless experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It also has a subtle resistance and a gentle typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. The polished finish of the Honey switch further enhances its smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as a stepped switch, which means it has a tactile feel that has two stages. It offers some pre-travel and/or post-travel, resulting in a milder tactile sensation compared to hypertactile switches.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch provides a subdued sound profile, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound. In terms of feel, the Honey switch provides a creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switch has a stepped tactile feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. It is important to consider personal preferences, the keyboard board, and keycaps chosen to achieve the desired typing experience. While the qualities may differ, it is possible to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel based on individual preferences with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a smooth and creamy typing experience, the TTC Honey linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a light 50g bottom out force and offer a deep and pleasant sound profile. The Honey switch also has a subdued sound, making it quieter compared to most switches. In terms of feel, the Honey switch is described as creamy, frictionless, and subtle, providing a silky and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prioritize effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is a great choice. With a light actuation force of 37g and a satisfying tactile bump at 50g, the Phalaenopsis switch ensures each keystroke is a delightful experience. These switches also offer a beautiful translucent design. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as bassy and thocky, providing a deep and rich sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Honey linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound, the Honey switch is the way to go. However, if you prioritize effortless typing and a satisfying tactile bump with a deeper and richer sound, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a better fit. Consider the factors of bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile to make the decision that best suits your typing preferences.
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