Kailh BCP vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact both typing feel and sound profile, making it essential for users to consider their preferences. The Kailh BCP switch sets itself apart with a unique blend of creamy, elastic characteristics and a pronounced poppy sound, ideal for those who enjoy a tactile auditory feedback while typing. Its custom-molded design eliminates the hassle of disassembly, presenting a truly user-friendly experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is renowned for its bouncy feel, pairing a lightweight 22mm spring with a frictionless typing experience thanks to its thoughtfully designed polycarbonate top housing and factory lubrication. This results in a smooth and refined key travel, perfect for users who prioritize a seamless and quiet typing experience. Both switches cater to different styles and preferences, making them exceptional options in the world of linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When examining the Kailh BCP and KTT Orange switch housings, it is essential to note the contrasting materials utilized in their construction. The BCP switch features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer, more absorbent qualities. This yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a muted auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the KTT Orange employs a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its rigidity and translucence, which produces a sharper, more resonant sound profile. The polycarbonate’s higher-pitched and crisper auditory characteristics make it particularly appealing to users who favor clarity and brightness in sound, especially in RGB lighting setups where the material's clarity takes center stage.
Both switches feature nylon and polycarbonate materials in their bottom housings, continuing the trend of sound profile differences. The KTT Orange contains a polycarbonate bottom housing that reinforces its overall crispness and clarity. This serves to enhance the tactile feedback while delivering a more defined bottom-out sound. Meanwhile, the Kailh BCP's nylon bottom housing maintains the deeper and rounder auditory experience present in its top counterpart. Consequently, the distinction between the two switches becomes evident depending on which part of the housing you emphasize, as the nylon bottom effectively dampens sound while the polycarbonate accentuates it.
In scenarios where sound profile similarities are desired, one might achieve comparable results by combining elements from both switches in a custom build. By utilizing a nylon top housing from the BCP while pairing it with a polycarbonate bottom housing from the KTT Orange, a user may blend the best qualities of both materials. The resultant switch would deliver a sound profile that retains some of the warmth and depth of the nylon while still benefiting from the clarity and brightness of the polycarbonate. Thus, one can appreciate a unique acoustic experience that leverages the strengths of both housing materials, allowing for individual preferences to dictate the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh BCP and KTT Orange linear switches present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, which cater to different user preferences. The BCP switch features a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the KTT Orange is lighter with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This difference in force means that users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the KTT Orange more comfortable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Kailh BCP for its stronger push feel. Ultimately, while both switches serve similar functions, the choice between them hinges on the user's preference for weight and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that they provide the same feel and resistance when pressed. This equal travel distance means that users can expect a similar performance in terms of keypress depth, offering a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Since both switches feature the identical travel distance, anyone using either switch will achieve comparable results in terms of the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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 Kailh BCP switch presents a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that can enhance the auditory experience for typists who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback. This lively sound can be satisfying during both typing and gaming sessions, adding an element of excitement. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound. This type of sound is typically more mellow and bass-heavy, providing a pleasant auditory experience that is subtle yet fulfilling. Overall, while the BCP offers a more vibrant and sharp sound, the KTT Orange presents a softer, low-frequency resonance. The choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference, as each provides a distinct acoustic character.
In terms of feel, the Kailh BCP switch stands out with its creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy characteristics, providing a tactile engagement that seems to energize each keystroke. This bounciness combined with a certain elasticity results in a lively typing experience that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch is defined by its bouncy yet frictionless feel, which delivers a smooth and effortless travel experience. The long pole POM stem of the Orange contributes to this fluidity and minimizes any resistance, making for a slick typing experience. While both switches offer a bouncy sensation, the BCP provides a more textured engagement, while the KTT Orange emphasizes smoothness and reduced friction.
In conclusion, both the Kailh BCP and KTT Orange linear switches have unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. While the BCP offers a more pronounced and lively auditory experience coupled with an engaging, bouncy feel, the KTT Orange prioritizes a smooth, frictionless experience and a subtler sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize acoustic feedback and tactile sensation or a refined and fluid typing performance. Regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to enhance your keyboarding experience in their distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch should be guided by your personal typing preferences and desired sound characteristics. If you appreciate a medium-heavy actuation force and a more tactile auditory experience, especially one that features a poppy and clacky sound signature, then the BCP may be the right fit for you. Its unique design aims to provide an elastic and bouncy feel, ensuring a satisfying bottom-out sensation that can enhance your typing experience, especially during long sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, frictionless key travel that minimizes resistance, the KTT Orange switch is likely a better match. With its medium-light actuation force and low-pitched sound profile, it offers users a bouncy yet refined typing experience that is perfect for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what feels more comfortable and enjoyable for your specific needs, ensuring that every keystroke enhances your overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
