KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type L offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Matcha is known for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its linear switch design, offering a lighter key press and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Matcha is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', and 'Clacky', the Type L is described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Easy-to-press'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
40g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Type L switches differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Matcha features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound thanks to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing material.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Matcha and Type L switches continue to showcase their distinct characteristics. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to its sharper and crisper sound profile, in line with the qualities of its top housing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Type L complements its deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the impact of different housing materials on the overall sound profile of the switch. While both switches differ in bottom housing material, they each offer a unique typing experience based on the properties of their respective materials.
When considering how the housing materials impact the typing experience, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This means that the composition of both the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and tactile experience of a switch. While the Matcha and Type L switches may differ in their housing materials, both offer a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective top and bottom housings.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force, but the Type L is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. This means that users will get similar results in terms of typing feel, with the Matcha requiring a slightly stronger push for each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a slightly heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same movement of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and actuation point, regardless of which switch they choose to use. The matcha tactile switch and the Type L linear switch offer a standard travel distance ideal for typing and gaming purposes, providing a comfortable and reliable typing experience for users.
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 L 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is characterized by a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile with a subdued undertone, making it suitable for various purposes without being overly disruptive. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha switch presents a stepped and snappy typing experience, with a satisfying tactility that is accentuated yet not overwhelming. It also offers a feathery and subtle resistance, making it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. Similarly, the Gateron Type L switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience tailored to individual needs.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinctive characteristics in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Matcha switch delivers a more tactile and snappy sound with a stepped typing experience, the Type L switch provides a smoother and lighter keypress with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clean bottom-out sound and a snappy, stepped tactile feel, the Matcha may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound profile, easy-to-press actuation, and a feathery feel that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the Type L could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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