KTT Matcha vs. KTT Phalaenopsis

Overview

The world of mechanical keyboards offers a plethora of options, each with its unique characteristics and advantages. Among these options are the KTT Matcha and KTT Phalaenopsis switches, both belonging to the tactile switch category. The KTT Matcha is highly regarded for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, its long pole stem ensures a clean and distinct bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis stands out with its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. With a tactile force of 50g, it also offers a delightful tactile bump with each keystroke. However, let's delve deeper into these switches' nuances to help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Matcha Tactile

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Phalaenopsis are identical, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile, characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sounds. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.

In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The clear housing allows the lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. Whether it's the KTT Matcha or the KTT Phalaenopsis, users can enjoy the vibrant illumination of RGB lighting in their setups.

However, it's important to note that if the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the qualities brought by each housing material may be split between the two. The bottom housing, in particular, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing will contribute more to the sound when a key is released. This is something to consider when deciding between the KTT Matcha and the KTT Phalaenopsis, as their respective housing materials could result in slightly different typing experiences.

Overall, both the KTT Matcha and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits due to their shared polycarbonate housing materials. Whether it's the top housing for RGB lighting or the bottom housing for the impact on sound and feel, both switches deliver a high-quality typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered relatively light. The Matcha offers a slightly lighter actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Additionally, its bottom out force is also lighter, allowing for a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis provides a slightly stronger actuation force, resulting in a more pronounced tactile feedback during typing. Its higher bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a heavier push feel. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences, and users can achieve similar results in terms of weight by opting for either switch.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Matcha and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance between the top and bottom of the switch. Consequently, the travel distance of the Matcha and the Phalaenopsis is equal, ensuring a similar experience regardless of the switch chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha switch is known for its clean and snappy bottom-out sound. This means that when the key is fully pressed, there is a distinct and satisfying sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a bassy sound profile. This means that the sound produced during key presses is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is also characterized as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, the Matcha switch provides a clean and snappy sound, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper, richer, and more bassy sound experience.

In terms of feel, both the KTT Matcha and Phalaenopsis switches are described as stepped switches. This means that they provide a tactile feedback that feels like it has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This mild tactile feedback adds a level of smoothness and enhances the typing experience. However, the Matcha switch is further described as snappy and accented. The snappy characteristic indicates that it is super responsive and provides a lively typing experience. The accented characteristic means that it offers a moderate amount of tactility, not overwhelming but still noticeable. Furthermore, the Matcha switch is also feathery, which means it has an exceptionally light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is only described as stepped, indicating that it offers a mild tactile feedback without the additional characteristics mentioned for the Matcha switch. Overall, both switches provide a stepped tactile feel, but the Matcha switch offers additional snappiness, accented tactility, and a feathery typing experience.

Considering the available information, the KTT Matcha and Phalaenopsis tactile switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Matcha switch is known for its clean and snappy bottom-out sound, along with a comfortable and snappy tactile feel. It offers a feathery typing experience with a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a bassy tone. It offers a mild tactile feedback with a stepped feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can provide a delightful typing experience depending on personal preferences. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also influence the sound and feel of the switches. Overall, the Matcha and Phalaenopsis switches offer different subjective qualities, but one can expect similar results in terms of tactility and feedback due to their stepped feel.

Conclusion

In summary, if you are looking for a light and comfortable tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice for you. Its bottom out force of 45 grams provides a light typing experience, and the snappy tactility ensures a pleasant and responsive keystroke. The Matcha switch is also described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed.

Alternatively, if effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue are your priorities, the KTT Phalaenopsis would be an excellent option. With its light actuation force of 37 grams, prolonged typing sessions become comfortable and enjoyable. The Phalaenopsis switch offers a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience. This switch is described as both bassy, providing a deeper and richer sound, and thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound during keypresses.

Both switches have a stepped feel, meaning that they have two stages of tactility, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. However, the Matcha switch is also described as snappy, making it super responsive and lively. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a slightly different tactile experience, focusing more on effortless typing.

Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feel. Whether you prioritize snappy keys with a clean bottom-out sound or effortless typing with a deep and rich sound, there is a switch that will suit your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

Learn more

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more