Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, two switches stand out for their unique characteristics: the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Miaowu, both linear switches. The Keygeek Raw is celebrated for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch that offers a slightly textured feel straight out of the box. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action with its POK stem. While the Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subtle', the Miaowu is labeled as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs; 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw and the KTT Miaowu both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which provides a different tactile experience compared to the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing. The Nylon & UPE blend offers a softer feel when pressing down on the switch, while the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, crisper sound profile. Both housing materials have their own advantages, with the Nylon & UPE blend focusing more on tactile feedback and the polycarbonate offering a more distinct sound profile ideal for RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend, while the Miaowu uses nylon. The UMPE & Si blend in the Keygeek Raw offers a unique feel and sound profile when compared to the classic nylon housing of the Miaowu. The UMPE & Si blend provides a different typing experience with a potentially sharper sound, while the nylon housing gives a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound output of the switches.
When comparing the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is important to consider how the top and bottom housings affect the typing experience. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This means that the unique characteristics of the Nylon & UPE blend and UMPE & Si blend in the Keygeek Raw switches will be felt and heard differently compared to the polycarbonate and nylon housings used in the KTT Miaowu switches. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that they have differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Keygeek Raw switch has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, which is heavier compared to the Miaowu switch with a bottom out force of 50 grams. However, the actuation force of the Miaowu switch is lighter at 43 grams, while the actuation force of the Keygeek Raw switch is unknown. For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Miaowu switch would be a more suitable option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Keygeek Raw switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for their responsiveness, especially among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be highly noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper press, the Miaowu switch may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for responsiveness versus a more substantial key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Raw switch has a neutral profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various user preferences and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be perceived as crisp and percussive. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so the final auditory experience will depend on the overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a textured and slightly scratchy typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a bit of friction in their switches. Additionally, it offers a mild and subtle typing feel, making it approachable to most users with its safe middle-ground qualities. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively rebound when pressed. Users who prefer a more elastic typing experience may find the Miaowu switch to be more to their liking.
Overall, the Keygeek Raw and KTT Miaowu switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile and a textured typing experience, the KTT Miaowu switch delivers a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel. Choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as keycap material and keyboard construction. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users seeking specific qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a creamy yet lightweight feel, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is the way to go. It is perfect for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches and enjoy a slightly textured typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke action with enhanced stem stability, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be the better choice. It offers a bouncy and lively feel, along with a clacky sound profile that is sharp and snappy. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, bottom out force, and sound profile.