KTT Mint vs. KTT Phalaenopsis

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options available, each with their own unique characteristics. Two popular choices are the KTT Mint and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches. The Mint is a linear switch known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience. With a long pole stem, it offers a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting type feel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that excels in providing an effortless typing experience. With a light actuation force of 37g, it minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the 50g tactile force ensures a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with each keystroke. Both switches have their strengths and weaknesses, making it important to dive deeper into their specific characteristics before deciding on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Mint Linear

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$2.91 per 10

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Mint and KTT Phalaenopsis share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous if RGB lighting is intended to be used. This material provides a clear and resonant sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Consequently, whether it's the Mint or the Phalaenopsis, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality when it comes to pressing down on the keys. The impact and sound produced upon bottoming out the keys will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing of the Mint and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis.

However, where these two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Mint utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis employs a polycarbonate bottom housing just like its top housing. This bottom housing material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile similar to the top housing. Thus, typing on the Mint will offer a different auditory experience compared to the Phalaenopsis, particularly when it comes to the sound and sensation of bottoming out the keys.

In terms of overall typing experience, the Mint and the Phalaenopsis will deliver differing results due to the variations in their housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced in the Mint. Users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the Mint due to its nylon bottom housing. Alternatively, the Phalaenopsis with its polycarbonate bottom housing is likely to produce a sharper and crisper sound when bottoming out the keys. Conversely, the top housing, regardless of the switch model, will have a more considerable influence on the sound when the key is released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mint switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis switch's 37 grams, making the Mint switch slightly heavier. However, both switches have relatively light actuation forces, allowing for a smoother keystroke activation.

In terms of bottom out force, the Mint switch requires 53 grams of force, while the Phalaenopsis switch requires 50 grams. Both switches have relatively similar bottom out forces, indicating a consistent and solid typing experience when pressing down fully.

Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Phalaenopsis switch, as it has both a lighter actuation force and a lighter bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions.

On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial and stronger push feel may opt for the Mint switch. Despite being slightly heavier, the Mint switch's actuation and bottom out forces still fall within the medium-light range, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience.

Overall, while there are slight variations in actuation force and bottom out force between the KTT Mint linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, both switches offer a similar level of performance and can cater to different preferences.

Travel distance

The KTT Mint linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch possess the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom when pressed. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when using either of these switches. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both have an equal travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Mint linear switch is known for its satisfyingly smooth feel when typing. Thanks to its long pole stem, users can experience a "poppy thockiness," resulting in a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. The Mint switch also provides a light and fleeting type feel, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes. In terms of sound, the Mint produces a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched attribute gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the neutral profile makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user and whether you use it at home or work.

On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a beautiful and translucent design. It boasts a light actuation force of 37g, which makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue, even during prolonged typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis switch provides a discernible tactile bump of 50g, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. The sound produced by the Phalaenopsis switch is described as bassy and thocky. The bassy sound profile gives it a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the thocky characteristic produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, creating a sense of depth and satisfaction.

While the Mint and Phalaenopsis switches have their distinct qualities, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. The Mint excels in smoothness and a poppy thockiness, while the Phalaenopsis shines in effortless typing with its light actuation force and discernible tactile bump. In terms of sound, the Mint has a low-pitched and neutral profile, while the Phalaenopsis has a bassy and thocky sound. The feeling of the Mint switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Phalaenopsis, on the other hand, has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.

Overall, both switches offer unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. With the Mint, you can expect a smooth and poppy thocky experience, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound. The Phalaenopsis provides effortless typing, thanks to its light actuation force, and offers a bassy and thocky sound. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, if you enjoy the smoothness of the Mint and want a similar sound profile, the Phalaenopsis may also provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with added tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Mint is a great choice. Its long pole stem provides a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis is the switch for you. With its light actuation force and satisfying 50g tactile force, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience.

In terms of sound, the Mint has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses.

When considering the feel of the switches, the Mint offers a mild and polished typing experience. Its mild characteristics make it approachable to most users, while its polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a stepped switch, which means it has a two-stage tactile feel. This provides some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding a unique typing sensation.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mint and the KTT Phalaenopsis comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a smooth and satisfying linear switch with a medium-light force, the Mint is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter switch with a discernible tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis is the better option. Consider your typing preferences and the sound and feel you desire to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more