Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Phalaenopsis

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Black is known for its smoothness and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a textured and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis stands out with its light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump, providing effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue. The Cherry MX Black offers a classic feel, while the Phalaenopsis delivers a delightful and discernible keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.00 per 10

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches differ significantly in terms of their sound profiles. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis switch incorporates a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, if RGB lighting is a consideration, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it more suitable for showcasing vibrant lighting effects.

While the MX Black and the Phalaenopsis switches differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique advantages. The nylon housing of the MX Black contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Similarly, the polycarbonate housing of the Phalaenopsis switch ensures a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, both switches share the characteristic of having a softer bottom housing impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. However, when it comes to the sound produced while releasing a key, the top housing material becomes more influential. In this aspect, the MX Black's nylon top housing creates a rounder sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper sound.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Black produce a deeper and duller sound, while the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis create a sharper and clearer sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct advantages and similarities. Whether it's the absorption of sound in the case of the MX Black or the resonance of the sound in the case of the Phalaenopsis, the housing materials contribute significantly to the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. These weight variances have different implications for users. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for both work and gaming. Alternatively, the MX Black switch caters to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. However, it is important to note that if a similar typing experience is desired, the Phalaenopsis switch's lighter forces can produce comparable results to the MX Black switch. Overall, the MX Black is heavier in actuation and bottom out forces, while the Phalaenopsis is lighter in both aspects.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches travel from the top to the bottom over a distance of 4 mm, providing a similar tactile feedback when pressed. This means that users can expect a consistent keypress experience in terms of the distance traveled regardless of which switch they choose. The travel distance of 4 mm in both switches ensures that users can comfortably and accurately type or input commands on their keyboards.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its low-pitched profile. These switches produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is quite soothing to the ears. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile. It is characterized by a lower frequency range, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as "thocky," meaning it produces a deep, satisfying sound when pressed and released. Both switches offer a delightful sound experience, with the MX Black providing a familiar deep tone and the Phalaenopsis offering a bassy and thocky sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

Moving on to the feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its textured nature. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, providing a tactile feedback that some users prefer. Additionally, the MX Black switch is considered stiff, as it requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped. This means that it offers a tactile feedback with two stages. While it may feel milder compared to switches with a larger bump, there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Overall, the MX Black switch provides a textured and stiff typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a stepped tactile feel.

Taking into account all the available information, the Cherry MX Black and KTT Phalaenopsis switches have distinct subjective qualities. The MX Black switch produces a low-pitched sound characterized by a classic deep profile. It offers a textured feel with noticeable friction and requires a higher amount of force to actuate. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer sound profile. It has a stepped tactile feel, providing a milder sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches offer delightful experiences, ensuring that each keystroke is satisfying. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the MX Black or Phalaenopsis switch to achieve similar results.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier and more textured feel with a deep sound profile, the MX Black might be a better choice for you. The MX Black's bottom out force of 80 grams provides a satisfying and stable typing experience. Additionally, the low-pitched sound of the MX Black switches adds to the overall typing experience. However, if you prefer a lighter and stepped feel with a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch might be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Phalaenopsis switch offers effortless typing and minimizes finger fatigue. The stepped feel of these switches adds a unique tactile experience. Ultimately, it is important to try out both switches and consider your personal preferences when making a decision.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more