KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and Gateron Type L both offer unique advantages. The Kang White is praised for its poppy linear switch design, providing a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is a key component of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offering a light key press with only 45g required to bottom out and a deeper sound signature. While the Kang White is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral,' the Type L is categorized as 'Neutral,' 'Subdued,' 'Feathery,' and 'Easy-to-press.' 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
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Type L, it is evident that both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. However, the Kang White stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type L's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Kang White's top housing creates a more resonant and clear sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the differentiation in their top housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Kang White's polycarbonate top housing provides a unique sound profile that is sharper and more resonant, perfect for those who enjoy a clear and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder typing experience. These differences in housing materials give each switch its own distinct sound profile and typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Type L will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. While both switches offer a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound profile, the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Type L's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer the clearer sound of the Kang White or the fuller sound of the Type L, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is the lighter option with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Kang White switch is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Kang White switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Type L switch is lighter, making it ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight typing experience for extended periods of time. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their keyboard usage.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White and Gateron Type L linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience due to their equal travel distance. Overall, whether you opt for the KTT Kang White or the Gateron Type L linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, with a mellow and bass-heavy tone that suits a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch also provides a neutral sound profile but leans towards a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle auditory experience. Both switches excel in delivering a pleasant typing sound, but the Kang White may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly deeper tone, while the Type L offers a quieter option for a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Kang White's characteristics are not specified, but the Gateron Type L linear switch is noted for its feathery and easy-to-press nature. This feather-light actuation force requires minimal effort from the fingers, reducing fatigue during long typing sessions and providing a comfortable experience for tasks like gaming, schoolwork, or professional use. The easy-to-press quality enhances responsiveness and comfort, making typing effortless and enjoyable. While the Kang White's feel is not explicitly outlined, the Type L's feather-light touch and smooth actuation make it a favorable choice for those seeking a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.
Overall, both the Kang White and Gateron Type L linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White stands out for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Type L excels in providing a subdued and feathery typing feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. By considering factors such as sound preferences, tactile feedback, and desired actuation force, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can make an informed decision between these two high-quality switch options, knowing that they will achieve similar results in terms of reliability and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a poppy linear typing sound with unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a sound signature that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, the Type L would be a better choice for you. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the Kang White has a low-pitched sound while the Type L has a more subdued tone. In terms of feel, the Kang White does not have specific descriptors, while the Type L is described as feathery and easy-to-press, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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