TTC Iron vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The TTC Iron is praised for its pronounced clacky sound and light actuation force, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience perfect for precision-oriented users. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis stands out with its translucent switches and tactile bump, providing a delightful typing experience while minimizing finger fatigue. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
41g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and KTT Phalaenopsis both feature unique housing materials that impact the sound profile of the switches. The Iron utilizes POM in both the top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The choice of housing material in switches plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing or gaming experiences.
While the Iron and Phalaenopsis both aim to provide a pleasing sound profile with their housing materials, they achieve this in different ways. The POM housing of the Iron emphasizes a deeper tone, while the polycarbonate housing of the Phalaenopsis delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate can be advantageous for users looking to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows for a greater light diffusion. These differences in sound profiles and aesthetics highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall experience of using mechanical switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Iron and KTT Phalaenopsis offer users a choice in the type of sound profile they prefer. Whether someone prefers a deeper and muted sound profile provided by POM or a sharper and crisper sound profile from polycarbonate, there is a switch option available to cater to their preferences. Additionally, the split between top and bottom housings in switches demonstrates how these materials influence different aspects of typing or gaming experiences, from the initial keypress to the release of a key. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for a switch can greatly impact the overall satisfaction and enjoyment of using mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Iron being slightly heavier in terms of actuation force. The Iron requires 41 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Phalaenopsis needs 37 grams to actuate and also 50 grams to bottom out. This means that while the Phalaenopsis is lighter to press at the start, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once fully pressed. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Phalaenopsis for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Iron for a more substantial and responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can see that the Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, with the Iron being slightly shorter than the Phalaenopsis. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Iron, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Phalaenopsis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Iron linear switch offers a clacky profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound with each press. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch brings a bassy tone to the table, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Iron being more sharp and bright, while the Phalaenopsis leans towards a deeper and more resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and a light actuation force for effortless typing. Meanwhile, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as providing a stepped tactile feel, offering a more subtle tactile feedback with varying stages in the keystroke. While the Iron focuses on a gentle and low-impact typing experience, the Phalaenopsis aims to provide a discernible tactile bump without being overly pronounced.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it becomes evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Iron switch excels in delivering a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy sound and a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches provide quality performance and satisfaction to keyboard enthusiasts and daily users alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a pronounced clacky sound and buttery smooth travel, the Iron switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch is an excellent choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and feel or actuation force and tactile feedback. Be sure to test out both switches to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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