Zuoce Lavender vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and KTT Matcha offer unique experiences for users. The Zuoce Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha is praised for its comfortable, snappy tactility and clean bottom-out sound. The Lavender is categorized as easy-to-press and clacky, while the Matcha offers a blend of stepped, snappy, accented, clacky, feathery, and subtle characteristics. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Matcha both feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, although the Lavender's sound is relatively more muted compared to the Matcha's sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound produced by its polycarbonate top housing. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the POM top housing of the Lavender offers a more subdued look.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Lavender and the Matcha utilize POM and polycarbonate materials, respectively. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch when pressed down, with POM creating a deeper and more muted sound in the Lavender, while polycarbonate in the Matcha produces a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Visually, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Matcha's bottom housing adds to its overall aesthetic appeal compared to the more traditional look of the POM bottom housing in the Lavender.
Overall, while the Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Matcha differ in their housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their POM and polycarbonate top and bottom housings. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics, with the Lavender providing a more muted and traditional feel, while the Matcha offers a sharper and more modern sound experience. However, both switches showcase the versatility and impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Lavender switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Matcha switch's 40 grams, making the Lavender switch the heavier option. Similarly, the Lavender switch also requires a higher bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Matcha switch only requires 45 grams, again making the Lavender switch the heavier option. This means that the Lavender switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Matcha switch is lighter and more suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Lavender switch leans towards a more robust and tactile feel, while the Matcha switch is lighter and more conducive to prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, we see that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Matcha's 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quick response times, while the Matcha's slightly longer travel distance might offer a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lavender being on the shallower end and the Matcha closer to the average. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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, both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch are described as producing a clacky sound when pressed. This means that they both offer a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. 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.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lavender is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This results in a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Matcha is described as having a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages to the tactile feedback. It's also noted to be snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience that feels lively. Additionally, it's classified as an accented switch, providing a moderate amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle. Overall, the Matcha offers a comfortable and responsive typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience.
When considering all the available information, it's clear that the Zuoce Lavender and KTT Matcha switches offer different qualities that cater to various preferences. While both switches produce a clacky sound, the Lavender is favored for its easy-to-press feel, whereas the Matcha provides a stepped, snappy, and accented tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing. However, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience that is sure to meet your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound signature, the Lavender may be the right choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force and easy-to-press feel, it offers a satisfying typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha could be more suited to your liking. Its light bottom out force and stepped, snappy feel provide a distinct typing sensation that is responsive and lively. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type away on your mechanical keyboard.
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