KTT Laurel vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Gateron Type L stand out as excellent options to explore. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light linear design, featuring a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole for a perfect combination of responsiveness and comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash," focusing on classic travel distances and modern factory lubing techniques. As the lightest in its series, the Type L requires only 45g to bottom out and produces a sound that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Laurel is known for its snappy feel, the Type L offers an easy-to-press experience with a feathery touch. 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
43g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Gateron Type L switches both have unique characteristics that contribute to overall sound profiles. The Laurel's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, while the Type L's nylon top and bottom housings produce a fuller and rounder sound. Both materials have their advantages, with POM offering a unique sound profile and nylon providing a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound production, the POM top housing of the Laurel and the nylon bottom housing of the Type L both contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM top housing of the Laurel creates a pleasing sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing of the Type L impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. This split in housing materials highlights how different materials can affect different aspects of sound production in a mechanical keyboard switch.
While the housing materials of the Laurel and the Type L switches have distinct qualities, both switches ultimately offer a unique typing experience based on their respective materials. Whether it's the muted and deep sound of the POM housing in the Laurel or the fuller and rounder sound of the nylon housing in the Type L, users can expect a satisfying typing experience based on the specific qualities of each housing material. Overall, the differences in housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Laurel has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, making the Laurel require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Laurel requiring 50 grams and the Type L requiring 45 grams. In terms of weight, the Type L is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a marginally stronger push feel, which could be favored by users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm compared to the Type L's 4mm. The Laurel's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Type L's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, but the Laurel may be more suitable for those looking for a quicker key press, while the Type L may be better suited for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced key press.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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 known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, producing a subdued and dampened sound when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, indicating that it is super responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs. This results in a typing experience that feels more alive. In contrast, the Gateron Type L switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Type L switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter actuation force.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience, the Type L switch delivers a deeper sound and a feathery, easy-to-press feel. Both switches have their strengths and cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two options. Additionally, the actual sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so experimenting with different setups may be necessary to find the perfect match for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Laurel linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and a more neutral or subdued sound profile, the Type L switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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