KTT Miaowu vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu, a linear switch, and the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, stand out in the market. The Miaowu Switch by KTT is praised for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix shines with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a unique clicky switch experience with a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. While the Miaowu is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Phoenix falls under 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. If you prefer a linear switch that provides a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Miaowu might be the best choice for you. However, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a crunchy and polished feel, the Outemu Phoenix could be the optimal option. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Phoenix feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, the Miaowu has a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material.
In terms of sound profile, the differences between the Miaowu and the Phoenix lie in their bottom housings. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing focuses on creating a sharper and crisper sound with its stiffness. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Both switches make use of polycarbonate in their top housings, ensuring a similar outcome in terms of sharpness and clarity in sound, as well as compatibility with RGB lighting.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Phoenix ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that deliver a sharp and clear sound, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbing bottom housing or a stiffer, crisper one will impact your overall typing experience with these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing adds an aesthetic element, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Miaowu requires 50 grams, which is lighter than the Phoenix's 62-gram bottom out force. This means that the Miaowu provides a smoother typing experience with less resistance, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where lighter actuation is preferred. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Miaowu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quicker response times. Gamers especially appreciate shorter travel distances for enhanced performance. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may influence their decision. Ultimately, whether you choose the Miaowu or the Phoenix, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress travel distance.
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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise with each press, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, creating a unique and satisfying sound sensation. Both switches offer distinct audio characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Miaowu providing a more percussive tone and the Phoenix offering a more natural and textured sound.
When it comes to feel, the Miaowu switch is praised for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with each key press, giving the keys a lively and responsive feel that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. In comparison, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubing. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Miaowu providing a more vibrant and dynamic feel, while the Phoenix offers a smoother and more luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound profile and a bouncy tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a responsive and dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy sound profile and a polished feel, creating a more refined and smooth typing sensation. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring a customized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Miaowu with its 50-gram bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the Phoenix with its 62-gram bottom out force may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you value stem stability and a smoother keystroke action, the Miaowu's POK stem and enhanced molds make it a great option. However, if you are looking for a unique and dazzling clicky switch experience, the Phoenix's under-skirt click mechanism and crystalline sound profile may be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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