KTT Miaowu vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Type L stand out for their unique features and characteristics. The Miaowu switch, a linear switch, is renowned for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to its utilization of POK in the stem. This sets it apart from traditional switches with POM stems, resulting in a 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, also a linear switch, is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" and boasts a classic travel distance combined with modern factory lubing practices. Described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press', the Type L is the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out and producing a sound signature on the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Each switch offers its own unique benefits and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Gateron Type L, the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type L's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, provides a more clear and resonant sound, while nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Miaowu allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, while the Type L's nylon housing does not have this feature.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Miaowu and Type L feature nylon. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch will be consistent between the two.
Overall, the choice between the Miaowu and Type L housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in the Miaowu's top housing creates a unique and clear sound profile with the added benefit of RGB lighting, while the Type L's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound with a classic switch housing material. Both switches share nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine the best housing material for their needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In terms of weight, both switches provide a lighter typing experience, making them suitable for individuals who prefer extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Miaowu may offer a slightly heavier experience due to its higher bottom out force compared to the Type L. Overall, both switches offer a light typing feel with minimal force required for actuation and bottoming out, catering to users who value comfort and efficiency in their typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, the Miaowu has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Type L has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Miaowu has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type L. The Miaowu's 3.5 mm travel distance may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Type L's 4 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Miaowu being on the shorter end and the Type L on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth 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 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Miaowu switch is known for its clacky sound that is sharp and snappy when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more neutral sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, providing a subdued and dampened sound. Depending on personal preference, the Miaowu switch may offer a more pronounced and lively auditory experience compared to the more subtle and gentle sound of the Type L switch. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard, keycaps, and typing style.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Miaowu switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation that provides a spring-like and elastic feedback, giving a lively feel with rebound when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers due to its exceptionally light actuation force. This makes the Type L switch comfortable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall typing experience. The Miaowu switch, with its bouncy feedback, may cater to individuals who prefer a more tactile and responsive feel while typing.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Type L switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you are looking for a livelier and more tactile typing experience, the Miaowu switch may be the better choice, while the Type L switch could be preferred for its gentle and comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, the selection between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a light switch with a bottom out force of 45 grams and a sound profile described as neutral and subdued, the Gateron Type L may be the better choice for you. It offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy feel, the KTT Miaowu switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for actuation force, sound, and tactile feedback.
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