KTT Miaowu vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Miaowu switch boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to its POK stem, making it a great choice for those seeking a bouncy and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is renowned for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a low-pitched, textured, and stiff key feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry MX Black, it is clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic that nylon provides. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Miaowu utilizes polycarbonate while the MX Black uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Black absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry MX Black offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu is ideal for those who enjoy a sharp, clear, and resonant typing experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Black provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, perfect for users who prefer a duller and rounder typing feel. While the bottom housings of both switches may be made of the same material, the split between the top and bottom impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Miaowu and the Cherry MX Black housing materials comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant typing experience, the Miaowu with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder typing feel, the MX Black with its nylon top housing could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to find the perfect typing experience for their needs.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Miaowu switch will provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended use, such as in a work environment or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the MX Black switch will offer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the MX Black provides a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, catering to users who prefer a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preferences, with the Miaowu being the shorter option for faster responses and the MX Black offering a longer travel distance for a more pronounced keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
The Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide a distinct auditory experience, with the Miaowu offering a crisp and bright sound, while the MX Black provides a deeper and more subdued tone. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch will depend on additional factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively and responsive feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its textured and stiff feel, with noticeable friction when pressed and a higher amount of force required to actuate and bottom-out the keys. While the Miaowu switch offers a more elastic and rebounding experience, the MX Black switch provides a tactile and resistant typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force requirements.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch presents a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, while the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, tactile feedback, and actuation force, users can choose between these two switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. Additionally, it's important to consider other factors such as keyboard design, keycaps, and typing style when selecting a switch to ensure an optimal typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide reliable linear options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking different sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, key features, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth keystroke action with enhanced stem stability, the KTT Miaowu switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and value Cherry's reputation for perfection with a classic textured smoothness, the Cherry MX Black switch might be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for typing experience and the specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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