Zuoce Lavender vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to consider are the Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Zuoce Lavender is a linear switch that stands out for its smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. With a crisp and clacky sound signature, each keystroke on the Lavender switch is satisfying and enjoyable. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. The 50g tactile force on the Phalaenopsis switch provides a satisfying tactile bump for a delightful typing experience. While the Lavender switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Phalaenopsis switch is described as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and KTT Phalaenopsis both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lavender features POM top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound overall. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on each keyboard. However, if both keyboards were to have the same housing material for the top and bottom, such as both using POM or polycarbonate, the results would likely be more similar in terms of sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the differences in housing materials also play a role. The translucency of polycarbonate used in the Phalaenopsis allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. On the other hand, the opaque nature of POM used in the Lavender may not have the same light transmission properties. This visual distinction can impact the overall look and feel of the keyboard, depending on the user's preference for RGB lighting or a more muted appearance.
When it comes to how the housing material affects the typing experience, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of characteristics can create a unique typing sensation on each keyboard, showcasing how the choice of housing material can impact the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in the actuation force and bottom out force. The Lavender has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis's lighter 37 grams. Similarly, the Lavender also has a higher bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Phalaenopsis is slightly lighter at 50 grams. These differences indicate that the Lavender switch offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis provides a lighter touch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Lavender may be the better choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for a stronger push feel. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Phalaenopsis to be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Phalaenopsis's 4 mm. Despite the slight difference, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical switches. Gamers may lean towards the Lavender switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of typing feel and response.
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 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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch provides a clacky typing experience, characterized by sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, creating a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Both switches offer distinct sound signatures that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Lavender switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a stepped tactile feel, providing a more mild tactile feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches. This two-stage feel can enhance typing accuracy and comfort for some users.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch excels in providing a smooth and clacky typing experience with minimal resistance, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a satisfying tactile bump and a more stepped feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that can cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you appreciate a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth, clacky sound profile, the Lavender switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a tactile bump for enhanced typing feedback, the Phalaenopsis switch with its stepped feel and bassy, thocky sound may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to try them out and see which aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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