KTT Kang White vs. Cherry MX Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options that often come to mind are the KTT Kang White and the Cherry MX Black. Both of these switches fall into the linear category, providing a smooth keystroke experience. The Kang White is recognized for its poppy linear switch design, boasting a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness thanks to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the MX Black from Cherry is renowned for its classic textured smoothness, enhanced by Cherry's Hyperglide tooling. Typing on MX Black switches offers a familiar deep sound profile. While both switches share a low-pitched characteristic, the MX Black switch adds the element of stiffness to its repertoire. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Kang White Linear

Cherry MX Black Linear

$1.99 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Cherry MX Black switches exhibit notable differences and some shared characteristics. The Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This clear and translucent housing material is particularly beneficial for switches intended to be paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Black incorporates a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, giving the MX Black a duller and rounder sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Kang White and the MX Black utilize nylon as their housing material. This classic choice produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of nylon. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. By using a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, both switches create a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, the traits exhibited by each housing material are distributed accordingly. The characteristics of the bottom housing are more prominent when pressing down on a switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the specific materials vary, both the KTT Kang White and the Cherry MX Black switches deliver comparable results in terms of their housing materials' influence on sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences. The Kang White has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the MX Black requires a heavier force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Kang White has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, whereas the MX Black exerts a heavier force of 80 grams to fully press down.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kang White switch would be the better choice as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This can be advantageous for individuals who spend extended periods typing, such as those who use their keyboards at work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, the MX Black switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provides a firmer and more substantial typing feel. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a stronger push sensation while typing.

In terms of weight, the Kang White switch can be considered lighter than the MX Black switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter weight can contribute to a more responsive and effortless typing experience for users. However, it is important to note that both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, meaning that although the sensations may differ, the end result in terms of typing performance can be similar.

Travel distance

The KTT Kang White linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch share the same travel distance of 4mm, indicating that pressing down on a key will result in a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and relatively short travel distance, ensuring quick and efficient typing or gaming experiences. Therefore, users can expect similar results and tactile feedback from both switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch is best known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Low-pitched switches like the Kang White tend to produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The neutral sound profile of the Kang White makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and regardless of whether they are using the switch at home or in the workplace. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch also has a low-pitched sound profile similar to the Kang White. Both switches offer a deep and satisfying typing sound, with the MX Black having a familiar sound profile thanks to Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, there is limited information available for the Kang White. However, the MX Black is described as having a textured and stiff feel. Textured switches like the MX Black have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer for added feedback and control. The stiffness of the MX Black switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out, which gives a more firm typing experience. It is important to consider personal preference when it comes to the feel of a switch, as some users may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience while others may enjoy the added texture and stiffness.

To conclude, the Kang White and MX Black linear switches offer slightly different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Kang White provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the MX Black shares a similar low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Kang White has limited information available, while the MX Black offers a textured and stiff experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience. However, it is important to remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a dazzling typing sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch is the way to go. With its self-lubricating material, you can expect unparalleled smoothness while typing. In terms of sound, the Kang White offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. However, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a familiar deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is your best bet. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a classic textured smoothness. The MX Black also offers a low-pitched sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Kang White does not have a specific description, while the MX Black is described as textured and stiff. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Kang White and the Cherry MX Black depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

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Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more