Cherry MX Orange vs. KTT Strawberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Orange and KTT Strawberry are two popular choices among enthusiasts, each offering unique characteristics that can significantly affect your typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange switches, a revival of the original designs by Cherry's Japanese partner Hirose, are well-regarded for their combination of durability and a balanced tactile feedback, making them an excellent choice for those seeking reliability and a familiar touch. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches stand out with their eye-catching pink and clear housings, providing a smooth actuation paired with a buttery feel that many users find delightful during long typing sessions. While the MX Orange switches cater to those who appreciate a classic, refined experience, the KTT Strawberry appeals to those who prioritize a frictionless, polished typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$4.91 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange switches and the KTT Strawberry switches, we find a distinct contrast in the choice of plastics and their resulting acoustic profiles. The Cherry MX Orange utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, producing a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity of the keystrokes, yielding a crisper auditory feedback that many typists favor for a more engaging experience.

While the Cherry MX Orange provides a subtle and rounded auditory profile due to its nylon construction, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate housing creates a bright and lively sound. This contrast is especially evident when one considers the impact each material has on the sound produced during typing. The nylon housing’s ability to absorb sound results in a warmer typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a quieter, more subdued environment. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing of the KTT Strawberry allows for more pronounced sound during both key presses and releases, which can be particularly appealing in environments where tactile feedback is valued.

Nonetheless, both switch types can provide satisfying results depending on personal preference, even though they utilize different materials. If users are looking for a softer auditory experience, the Cherry MX Orange will deliver due to the sound-dampening properties of nylon. On the other hand, if a sharper sound is desired, the KTT Strawberry, with its crystal-clear polycarbonate construction, will stand out. Ultimately, the user experience will depend on individual typing habits and the sonic atmosphere the typist wishes to create, whether that be deep and rich or high-pitched and lively.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can observe some notable differences. The Cherry MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the KTT Strawberry features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the KTT Strawberry more comfortable, as it requires less force to register a keystroke. However, the KTT Strawberry's bottom out force is 62 grams, which is considered medium, and gives it a firmer feel when fully depressed, although the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange remains unknown. Consequently, while the MX Orange has a stronger actuation feel, the heavier bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry contributes to a more pronounced response when bottoming out. Therefore, for those accustomed to a heavier force for a substantial typing experience, the Orange might be more appealing; conversely, the Strawberry offers a lighter actuation for those who prefer ease of use.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Orange and the KTT Strawberry linear switches share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on each key. This equal travel distance allows for consistent feedback regardless of which switch is used, making them both comparable in terms of responsiveness and key actuation. As a result, users transitioning from one switch to the other will likely not notice a difference in travel distance, providing a seamless experience in typing or gaming scenarios.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switches present a less defined profile, as their specific acoustic characteristics aren't detailed in the available information. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switches are noted for their low-pitched sound, which tends to produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This acoustic quality can provide a more subdued auditory experience compared to higher-pitched switches, making them suitable for environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound production can be influenced by the specific keyboard board and keycap choices used alongside the switches.

In terms of feel, the MX Orange lacks specific descriptions regarding its tactile sensation, making it difficult to assess its characteristics fully. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches shine in this aspect, offering a frictionless typing experience that minimizes resistance while typing. They are praised for their silky, buttery, and polished qualities, contributing to a smooth and effortless keystroke. This gives the user an enhanced and fluid typing experience, allowing for easy transitions between keys without feeling any roughness or drag.

In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange does not provide detailed information regarding its sound and feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switches are celebrated for their low-pitched sound and exceptional, smooth tactile experience. If you're seeking a more nuanced auditory experience and a refined typing sensation, the KTT Strawberry switches would be a preferable choice. However, if you're considering the MX Orange, be prepared for a more generic sound profile and an undetermined typing feel, suggesting their performance may be less distinctive compared to the KTT Strawberries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the Cherry MX Orange and the KTT Strawberry linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and how you plan on using your keyboard. If you value a softer bottom-out feel and an emphasis on smooth keystrokes, the Cherry MX Orange may be your best bet, especially if you’re looking for a switch that enhances your typing experience in a subtler way. However, due to the lack of concrete information on key resistance and feel, you might encounter variability in this switch that can impact your experience. On the other hand, if you desire a more defined tactile feedback with a consistent medium actuation force of 62 grams, the KTT Strawberry is a fantastic choice. Its low-pitched sound profile and silky, frictionless feel provide reliable performance and an enjoyable typing experience, making it especially appealing for longer typing sessions. This makes the KTT Strawberry particularly suited for users who value a blend of comfort and performance in their keyboard setup. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and what features you prioritize most in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

KTT Strawberry Linear

$4.91 per 10

Learn more