KTT Laurel vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the KTT Laurel and the Kailh Plum. The Laurel is a linear switch, known for its medium-light weight and smooth travel. Its full POM housing and long pole design strike the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, users appreciate the subtly low-pitched sound profile that the KTT Laurel switch offers. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its unique feel. While it feels hefty, it doesn't feature a significant tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches. The Plum also offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. Overall, the Laurel is ideal for those who prefer a linear switch with a smooth feel, while the Plum is a great choice for individuals seeking a tactile switch that doesn't sacrifice weightiness for tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the Kailh Plum differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Laurel utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively muted sound. This creates a pleasing and unique auditory experience. In contrast, the Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, if you plan to use RGB lighting, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for the top housing. While the sound profiles differ, both materials offer their own advantages and can provide satisfying results depending on individual preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Laurel's POM bottom housing shares similarities with its top housing. It creates a similar deep and relatively muted sound profile, harmonizing with the top housing. On the other hand, the Plum features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles between the two switches' bottom housings offers users the chance to choose the auditory experience they prefer.
When considering the overall experience of using these switches, the impact of the housing materials can be felt differently. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, when you press down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. Thus, the choice of housing materials in both the top and bottom components of a switch can have a noticeable impact on the overall audio feedback and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Laurel is 43 grams, while the actuation force of the Plum is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams for the Laurel and 70 grams for the Plum.
In terms of weight, the Laurel is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Plum. This lighter actuation force of the Laurel allows for a more responsive typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a smoother and quicker keystroke. Additionally, the lighter bottom out force of the Laurel can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as in a professional setting or during long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Plum offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. This heavier force provides a stronger push feel, which can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced keystroke. With the Plum, users can expect a satisfying feedback and a sense of stability while typing.
Overall, the Laurel and Plum switches cater to different preferences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prioritize lighter and more responsive keystrokes might lean towards the Laurel, while individuals seeking a heavier and more pronounced typing experience may opt for the Plum. However, if similarities are desired, both switches have a bottom out force, making it possible to achieve comparable results in terms of the feeling of pressing all the way down.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth mentioning. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they offer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Laurel with its slightly shorter travel distance may be a better choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, lacking a sense of depth. In this case, opting for the Plum with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, both switches offer similar results, with the Laurel being slightly shorter and the Plum being slightly longer in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch is best described as having a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is considered enjoyable. A neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, both switches offer pleasant sound characteristics, albeit with slightly different profiles.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy. Snappy switches are known for being super responsive, often due to longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the typing experience and makes it feel more alive. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. With a more gentle tactile bump and a moderate actuation force, it provides a comfortable and approachable typing feel. Additionally, the Plum switch is classified as a stepped switch, which means it has two stages to the tactile feedback. This gives a mild and controlled tactile experience, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. While the Laurel and Plum switches provide different typing experiences, both offer their own unique qualities that are enjoyable for different preferences.
Overall, based on the available information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the Laurel switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, while the Plum switch has a neutral and enjoyable sound. When it comes to feel, the Laurel switch is snappy and highly responsive, while the Plum switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience with a stepped tactile feel. Both switches have their own advantages and can cater to different preferences. Therefore, depending on the desired sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more responsive typing experience, the Laurel would be a great choice for you. Its medium-light weight and snappy feel make it suitable for those who want a balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound profile, which can be appealing to those who prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more mild and approachable typing experience, the Plum would be a better fit. Its heftier weight and mild tactile bump create a unique tactile experience that stands out from other tactile switches. The Plum also offers a neutral sound profile, which can be enjoyable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or in a professional setting.
Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and Plum switches depends on your personal preferences for weight, tactile feedback, and sound profile. Consider what type of typing experience you value most and choose accordingly. Experimenting with different switches can also help you discover your preferences and find the perfect switch for you.
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