KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type A offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The KTT Matcha is renowned for its tactile feedback, providing users with a comfortable and snappy typing experience. Known for its clean bottom-out sound and a variety of tactile attributes such as being stepped, accented, clacky, and feathery, the Matcha switch is a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its linear design. With a focus on offering a medium-weight switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A switch is categorized as neutral and subdued. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into the specifics can help you determine the best switch for your typing needs. So, let's explore further beyond these generalities to find the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type A both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profile and feel. The Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the fuller and deeper sound profile of the Type A's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Matcha's top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the softer nylon material in the Type A absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Matcha and the Type A differ in material yet again. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the sharper sound profile and clear resonant sound that is consistent with its top housing. On the other hand, the Type A's nylon bottom housing continues to offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, complementing its nylon top housing. The different materials in the bottom housing of these switches impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type A offer distinct sound profiles and feels, they both showcase the importance of material selection in switch design. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Matcha provide consistency in sharp and clear sound profiles, while the nylon top and bottom housings of the Type A offer a consistent deep and fuller sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique experiences that highlight the impact of housing materials on typing quality.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch. The Matcha requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the Type A needs 50 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. The Matcha offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for long typing or gaming sessions where fatigue can be a factor. On the other hand, the Type A provides a slightly heavier feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. The consistency in travel distance might result in a similar typing experience for users who choose either of these switches. Additionally, since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect comparable levels of keypress actuation and feedback. Overall, whether you choose the KTT Matcha tactile switch or the Gateron Type A linear switch, you can expect to have a similar travel distance experience during typing or gaming sessions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Type A 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 Matcha tactile switch offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can create a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a crisp and percussive sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum. This can be a great option for those looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap setup.
When it comes to feel, the Matcha tactile switch is described as offering a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle typing experience. These qualities combine to provide a comfortable and responsive feel while typing, making it suitable for various typing tasks. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not provided. However, based on the available information of it being a medium-weight switch with factory lubing techniques, it is likely to offer a smooth and consistent typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha provides a clacky sound and a tactile typing experience with various characteristics like snappiness and featheriness. On the other hand, the Type A switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, ideal for those seeking a medium-weight switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if you are looking for a similar result in terms of sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Matcha tactile switch or the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience. If you prefer a light and snappy tactile feel with a clean bottom-out sound, then the Matcha may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a moderate sound profile and actuation force, the Type A could be more suitable. Keep in mind that the Matcha is more likely to provide a clacky typing experience, while the Type A offers a more neutral and subdued sound. Additionally, the Matcha offers a variety of feels such as stepped, snappy, and feathery, whereas there is limited information available on the specific feel of the Type A. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches.
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