Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch with the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight switch that offers a slightly textured feel out of the box. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches and prefer a more neutral and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis boasts a light actuation force of 37g and a tactile bump of 50g, making typing effortless and enjoyable while minimizing finger fatigue. With its bassy, stepped, and thocky characteristics, this switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback for each keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths and appeals, but diving deeper into their specific features can help you determine the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Phalaenopsis use high-quality housing materials that contribute to a sharp, crisp sound profile. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for the top housing and a UMPE & Si blend for the bottom housing, while the Phalaenopsis features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis creates a stiffer plastic that leads to a more resonant sound profile, particularly when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw's exclusive blends offer a unique sound experience that sets it apart from other switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of the KTT Phalaenopsis, which is most likely made of polycarbonate, allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Meanwhile, the Keygeek Raw's housing blends may not offer translucency but provide a distinct sound profile that may cater to different preferences. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize the sound quality and tactile feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether it is the sharp, higher-pitched sound of the Phalaenopsis or the exclusive blends of the Keygeek Raw, users can expect a premium typing experience from either switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Phalaenopsis comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel. While the Keygeek Raw offers a unique blend of Nylon, UPE, UMPE, and Si for its housing materials, the Phalaenopsis focuses on the stiffer polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in achieving the desired sound and feel. Whether you prefer the exclusive blends of the Keygeek Raw or the clarity of polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis, both switches offer premium quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that the Phalaenopsis is the lighter option. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams. The Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Phalaenopsis's 50 grams. The Keygeek Raw offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, while the Phalaenopsis provides a lighter feel that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique advantages based on the preferences of the user, where those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Keygeek Raw, whereas those looking for a lighter touch might choose the Phalaenopsis.
Travel distance
In comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we see that the Keygeek Raw has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance than the Phalaenopsis. The Keygeek Raw's 3.4 mm travel distance is on the shorter side, making it ideal for those who value faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis's 4 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the shorter Keygeek Raw offering quicker responses and the longer Phalaenopsis providing a more pronounced key press sensation.
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 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.
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 linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and users. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound experience, providing a deeper and richer auditory feedback during typing. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a textured and mild typing experience with a subtle resistance, ideal for those who prefer a gentle and friction-free typing feel. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feedback that gives users a discernible bump during keystrokes. While the Keygeek Raw switch focuses on a subtle and approachable typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile and a textured, mild typing feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy, thocky sound experience and a stepped tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can achieve different results with each switch, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique material blend, a slightly textured feel, and a moderate sound profile, then the Keygeek Raw linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a discernible tactile bump, and a deeper, richer sound profile, then the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the specific experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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