Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and KTT Orange each offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences and styles. The MX Speed Silver excels in delivering lightning-fast response times with its low spring resistance and full-height design, making it a favorite among gamers who thrive on speed and precision. Its textured, thocky feel enhances the tactile experience, providing satisfying feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Orange is characterized by a bouncy type feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring, which grants users a distinctive sense of rebounding as they type. With a frictionless typing experience provided by its polycarbonate milky top housing and long pole POM stem, the Orange switches prioritize smoothness and a refined sound profile that is equally appealing for both gaming and typing. While both switches share a low-pitched audio quality, they diverge in their tactile sensations and intended use cases. 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
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the KTT Orange switches, notable differences emerge that significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cherry MX Speed Silver features nylon housings for both the top and bottom, while the KTT Orange employs polycarbonate for the respective housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, dampening vibrations and creating a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the polysilicate used in the KTT Orange produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its increased rigidity, which amplifies sound clarity and resonance. This foundational difference means that users can expect a distinctly different acoustic experience between the two switches, with the MX Speed Silver favoring a muted, softer sound, and the KTT Orange offering a much more pronounced and crisp auditory feedback.
Additionally, when considering the aesthetic properties associated with these materials, the differences are equally pronounced. The polycarbonate used in the KTT Orange's housing is typically clear, allowing for enhanced light transmission and somit a more vibrant illumination effect when RGB lighting is utilized. This particular quality may influence gamers and typists who desire a visually appealing and dynamic switch experience. In contrast, the opaque nature of nylon used in the MX Speed Silver, although effective for sound absorption, does not lend itself to the same lighting effects, potentially leaving users without the visual flair that polycarbonate can provide. Therefore, while both switches cater to specific auditory preferences, their aesthetic capabilities reveal an important contrast between function and form.
Furthermore, it's essential to recognize how these materials contribute to the tactile experience of each switch. The tactile nature provided by the nylon housings in the Cherry MX Speed Silver helps create a more cushioned press and bottom-out feeling, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a softer touch on their keys. Conversely, the KTT Orange's polycarbonate allows for a sharper, more immediate reaction when typing, appealing to individuals who favor a more responsive feel under their fingers. Ultimately, while both switches might fulfill the fundamental role of a key switch, the differences in their housing materials create varying experiences, catering to diverse user preferences regarding sound, aesthetics, and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, we can see some key differences in their actuation forces, although the bottom out force for the Speed Silver remains unknown. The Cherry MX Speed Silver requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Orange’s 46 grams, making the Speed Silver marginally easier to activate, which can enhance comfort during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Orange has a measurable bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating it provides a heavier tactile response when the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, while the Speed Silver may be preferable for those looking for a lighter touch, the KTT Orange caters to users who enjoy a heavier, more substantial feel. Since the bottom out force for the Speed Silver is not available, we cannot draw a direct comparison there, but the overall experience suggests that if it follows the usual pattern, it may also be lighter than the KTT Orange's bottom out force. Thus, users can choose according to their preferences for typing comfort versus keystroke feedback.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Speed Silver the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize quick response times often favored by gamers. In contrast, the KTT Orange offers a more traditional feel with its additional millimeter of travel, which might suit users who appreciate a fuller keystroke depth. While both switches fall into the category of linear switches, the difference in travel distance can significantly affect user experience; the Speed Silver will provide a more abrupt actuation for a quicker response, whereas the KTT Orange may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and KTT Orange switches exhibit a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a mellow and bass-heavy tone. The MX Speed Silver is noted for its thocky sound, producing a deep, rich resonance with each key press, akin to a satisfying "thud" as it engages. Meanwhile, the KTT Orange shares this low-pitched quality but is specifically described as providing a slick typing experience with a refined sound, which may contribute to a more pleasant and subtle acoustic feedback during use. While both switches offer a pleasing sound profile, the exact sound experience can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the MX Speed Silver features a textured sensation, which may result in noticeable friction when typing. This texture might appeal to users who enjoy a bit of tactile feedback, enhancing their engagement with each key press. Conversely, the KTT Orange is defined by its bouncy and frictionless characteristics. Users can expect a spring-like, elastic feedback with minimal resistance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. While both switches deliver distinctive feels, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may come across as somewhat scratchier compared to the pure fluidity offered by the KTT Orange.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and KTT Orange linear switches cater to different user preferences when it comes to sound and feel. While both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, the MX Speed Silver brings a richer thocky resonance compared to the smoother output of the KTT Orange. Feel-wise, the Speed Silver provides a textured, potentially scratchy experience, while the KTT Orange excels in delivering a frictionless, bouncy feedback that many users may find delightful during longer typing sessions. Ultimately, both options provide unique benefits, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the KTT Orange linear switches ultimately hinges on your primary use case and personal preferences. If you're a gamer seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and minimal actuation force, the MX Speed Silver is your go-to option. Its quick actuation, low spring resistance, and textured feel are designed to give you a competitive edge in fast-paced gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and bouncy typing experience for general use or programming, the KTT Orange switches might be more appealing. Their medium-light actuation force, coupled with their frictionless travel and lively feedback, create a comfortable environment for extended typing sessions while maintaining a pleasing, low-pitched sound. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize speed and rapid actuation in gaming or a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for daily tasks.
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