KTT Kang White vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Kang White and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Kang White is a linear switch known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, offering a dazzling typing sound. Its self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness during typing. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch featuring beautiful translucent keys and a light actuation force of 37g. This makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue, even during prolonged typing sessions. With a satisfying 50g tactile force, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience thanks to the discernible tactile bump. Despite these general characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Kang White and the KTT Phalaenopsis share similar housing materials, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and visual results from both the Kang White and Phalaenopsis switches due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, the bottom housing materials of these two switches differ. The Kang White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon as a switch housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to its polycarbonate top housing. This plastic's stiffer nature enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Therefore, the choice between the Kang White and Phalaenopsis will result in a different typing experience, with the Kang White offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Phalaenopsis delivers a sharper and crisper sound.
When using switches with different top and bottom housing materials like the Kang White and Phalaenopsis, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will highlight the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on personal preferences and priorities, users can consider these aspects to determine their desired typing experience and choose between the Kang White and Phalaenopsis switches accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered as medium. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option.
Considering weight is important for different reasons. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are noticeably lower than the Kang White. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without much strain on the fingers. It would be ideal for bringing to work or for extended gaming sessions.
However, if someone prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Kang White would be the better option. The higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a greater resistance and feedback, giving a more satisfying typing experience. This can be particularly appealing to individuals who value a heavier keystroke.
It is worth mentioning that if a user desires similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, they can achieve this by opting for switches with forces closer to each other. In this case, both the Kang White and the Phalaenopsis switches have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Phalaenopsis being slightly lighter overall.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kang White and the Phalaenopsis switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel, both switches offer their own advantages in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the results in terms of travel distance will be similar for both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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
The KTT Kang White linear switch is known for its dazzling typing sound, which is best described as low-pitched and neutral. Low-pitched switches tend to have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a pleasant typing experience. The neutral sound profile makes the Kang White suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use the keyboard at home or at work. Keep in mind that the sound of the Kang White switch can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a different sound experience. These switches are described as bassy and thocky. Bassy switches produce a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The thocky characteristic of the Phalaenopsis switch contributes to a satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released, akin to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud." This can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, there is no specific information provided about the Kang White switch. Therefore, we cannot draw any conclusions about its tactile characteristics. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as a stepped switch. Stepped switches offer a mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches. With a stepped switch, you can feel a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding some subtle stages to the keystroke.
In conclusion, the Kang White and Phalaenopsis switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound. The feel of the Kang White is unknown, but the Phalaenopsis is a stepped switch, providing a mild tactile experience. Both switches have their own unique features that can enhance the typing experience, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, if one desires a similar sound profile to the Kang White, they can achieve comparable results by selecting a low-pitched and neutral switch with their desired actuation force and pairing it with a suitable keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you are someone who values a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White switch would be the perfect choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 58 grams provides a satisfying experience without being too heavy. On the other hand, if effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue are your priorities, the Phalaenopsis switch with its light bottom out force of 50 grams would be ideal. The 50g tactile force ensures a delightful typing experience with a discernible bump.
When it comes to sound, the Kang White offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, which gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, which offers a deeper and richer tone resembling the depth and satisfaction associated with bass tones.
In terms of feel, the Kang White switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned. However, the Phalaenopsis is described as a stepped switch, meaning it feels more mild compared to hypertactile switches. This mildness allows you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a unique tactile experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Kang White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as typing sound, typing feel, bottom out force, and the type of typing experience you desire. By examining these factors, you will be able to make an informed choice and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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