KTT Miaowu vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing style and preferences, you may come across the KTT Miaowu, a linear switch, and the Everglide Oreo, a tactile switch. The Miaowu switch from KTT boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to its POK stem, setting it apart from switches with conventional POM stems. Categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches offer a delectable treat for your fingertips with a crisp tactile bump at the top and a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Chirpy', and 'Stepped', these Oreos strike a balance between satisfying keystrokes and comfort. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Miaowu and the Oreo both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
Whereas the Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the Oreo opts for another polycarbonate bottom housing. While the polycarbonate bottom housing also contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, it lacks the depth and fullness that nylon provides. This variation in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Miaowu offering a more rounded sound compared to the Oreo's sharper tone.
It is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials in a switch can be felt differently depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between the Miaowu and the Oreo comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile and typing experience one desires, with the nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu offering a deeper sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Oreo.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Miaowu is better suited for those who prefer a lighter and easier keystroke activation, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Oreo provides a bit more resistance, giving a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a similar overall feel, but the slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces cater to individuals with varying preferences for key press weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Oreo has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial tactile feedback compared to the Miaowu. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Miaowu with its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more satisfying key press with a bit more depth may lean towards the Oreo. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences among keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Miaowu linear switch is known to produce a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as chirpy, with a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. The sound profile of a switch can vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Miaowu switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel. On the contrary, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as accented, offering a medium tactile experience that strikes a balance between satisfying tactility and comfortable typing. Additionally, the Oreo switch is also noted for its stepped feel, which provides a mild two-stage tactile sensation with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Considering all the available information, it's clear that the Miaowu linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Miaowu switch leans towards a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Oreo switch provides a chirpy sound and accented tactile experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and stable keystroke action with a light bottom out force, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump followed by a cushioned sensation, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the way to go. The Miaowu offers a clacky sound profile, while the Oreo provides a chirpy sound with a subtle, mellow profile. In terms of feel, the Miaowu offers a bouncy sensation, while the Oreo gives an accented and stepped tactile experience. Consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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