KTT Matcha vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Matcha and Cherry MX Orange provide distinct options that cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers alike. The KTT Matcha, celebrated for its tactile response, offers a comfortable, snappy feel during typing sessions, complemented by a clean bottom-out sound that enhances the overall experience. Its unique characteristics—stepped, snappy, and often described as clacky or feathery—make it an appealing choice for those who enjoy feedback and auditory satisfaction with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, a reissue of the beloved original MX Orange, deliver a smooth and linear typing experience without the tactile bump, which suits users who prefer a quieter and uninterrupted keypress. The MX Orange’s improvements align with current demands, making it a reliable option for those seeking durability and performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Matcha Tactile

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Cherry MX Orange switches, it becomes evident that they are constructed from distinctly different plastics which ultimately shape their auditory and tactile experiences. The KTT Matcha features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. Its stiffness facilitates a higher-pitched, crisper sound, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize audible feedback in their typing experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange incorporates nylon in both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its ability to absorb sound. The result is a fuller, deeper, and rounder sound profile that tends to offer a softer typing experience compared to the sharper tones produced by polycarbonate.

The differences in materials not only affect sound but also influence how each switch feels under finger pressure. With the polycarbonate used in the Matcha, users can expect a distinct, immediate response when pressing down on the keys, enhanced by the housing's properties which contribute to a more pronounced keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange’s nylon hinders vibrations, providing a more subdued and cushioned feel during typing. Users might prefer the Matcha for gaming or fast typing tasks where sharp auditory cues help with precision, while the MX Orange may cater well to those seeking a more relaxed and quieter typing experience, fitting casual or office environments.

However, while the KTT Matcha and Cherry MX Orange switches differ significantly in housing material and resulting auditory profiles, there is an advantage to their respective materials when it comes to RGB lighting. Both polycarbonate and nylon can be designed to allow light to filter through their respective housings, but polycarbonate’s translucency can enhance the visibility and vibrancy of RGB effects more prominently. Ultimately, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, but the choice between them will heavily depend on whether users prefer the crisper sound and aesthetics of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound and muted characteristics of nylon.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force that cater to different user preferences. The KTT Matcha exhibits a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable option for those who favor a less fatiguing typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a firmer push required to register a keystroke, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. However, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, which means it could either match or differ from the Matcha's bottom out force. Overall, if you're seeking a lighter option with easier keystrokes, the KTT Matcha will serve you well, while those who appreciate a heavier switch may lean toward the Cherry MX Orange, provided they can tolerate its unknown bottom out characteristics.

Travel distance

The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they offer identical key travel lengths when pressed. This similarity means users can expect comparable feedback and actuation depth from both switches, leading to a similar typing experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, enthusiasts looking for a tactile sensation in their typing will find that either option provides consistent results in terms of key engagement.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is characterized by a clacky noise profile, producing a sharp, snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This distinct auditory feedback makes typing an engaging experience, almost akin to music to a typist's ears. In contrast, the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch is less well-documented, leaving a gap in comparison regarding its acoustic qualities. Generally, linear switches like the MX Orange are known for their smooth sound without the pronounced auditory feedback found in tactile or clicky switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of any switch can be influenced by external factors, such as the type of keyboard, keycaps, and even the surface it's placed on, so individual experiences may vary.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha switch stands out with a unique combination of tactile qualities. It offers a stepped, snappy sensation that allows for a responsive typing experience, enhanced by a long pole stem that supports a clean bottom-out feeling. This tactile engagement provides typists with momentary feedback during keystrokes, making it suitable for both gaming and typing work. The Matcha switch is also accented, delivering a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between not being overwhelming and yet still pleasantly noticeable. Additionally, it features a feathery feel, making it light to press, which can reduce finger fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, the characteristics of the MX Orange in terms of tactile feedback remain unknown, so a direct comparison cannot be made regarding the tactile nuances between the two.

Taking into consideration both sound and feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch comes out with a defined presence, offering a distinct auditory crispness and an engaging tactile experience that can accommodate a variety of typing needs. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch lacks detailed descriptions for both its sound and feel, making it challenging to provide a thorough comparative analysis. If you're looking for a switch that combines auditory and tactile feedback, the Matcha would be the clear choice. However, both switches, being part of the vast world of mechanical keyboards, can cater to specific user preferences depending on individual typing habits, thus drawing attention to the importance of personal experimentation in finding the right switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a pronounced, snappy feel and an appealing auditory feedback, the Matcha would be the superior choice. Its light actuation force of 45 grams makes it particularly suitable for extended typing sessions, whether you’re writing, coding, or gaming, while its clacky sound brings a lively character to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear experience without the tactile bump and are looking for something that transitions fluidly from keypress to keypress, then the MX Orange might be more appealing. While the specific bottom-out force is unknown, its design emphasizes a consistent and quiet action, which can be perfect for environments where noise levels must be minimized. Ultimately, consider how much tactile feedback, sound, and feel matter to you in your typing experience, and select the switch that aligns closely with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more