Haimu Orange Sea vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a significant role, and two noteworthy options are the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Peach, both linear switches. The Haimu Orange Sea is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing feel and a neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet yet responsive experience during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Peach offers a syrupy smooth typing experience complemented by a deep, thocky sound profile, which appeals to users looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. While both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking a linear feel, their distinct acoustic characteristics set them apart. If you prefer a subtle, serene typing environment, the Orange Sea may be your ideal match, while the KTT Peach might tempt those who enjoy a richer soundscape. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Peach both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a shared characteristic of producing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity arises from polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance during key presses. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate not only allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects but also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of both switches. Whether it's the Haimu Orange Sea or the KTT Peach, users can expect a visually striking and sonically engaging experience due to the properties inherent in this plastic material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Haimu Orange Sea and KTT Peach switches both employ nylon, a classic and well-regarded material in the keyboard switch industry. Nylon's softer composition leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it tends to absorb sound waves more effectively than its harder counterparts. This absorption results in a duller yet rounder sound, which creates a harmonious balance when paired with the higher-pitched output of the polycarbonate top housing. Thus, the distinct qualities of nylon contribute to the overall acoustic experience, allowing for a cohesive blend of characteristics that define the switches from both brands.
When it comes to overall performance, the combination of different materials in each switch plays a pivotal role in influencing both the tactile sensation and the acoustic properties. In the case of the Orange Sea, the sharpness of the polycarbonate top balances out the full, rounded sound from the nylon bottom. The same can be said for the KTT Peach, where the two materials complement one another. Ultimately, regardless of the differences in brand name, the shared use of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that users of both switches will encounter a unique sound experience characterized by a vibrant high end and a robust low end, resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a lightweight actuation force of 37 grams combined with a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Peach switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger push feel. As a result, the Orange Sea can be characterized as the lighter switch, while the Peach is the heavier option. Though both switches have their unique characteristics, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces makes it clear that users seeking a lighter typing feel should gravitate towards the Orange Sea, whereas those favoring a more robust feedback would benefit from the KTT Peach.
Travel distance
The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Peach linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Peach switch offers a bit more depth in its actuation, appealing to users who favor a sturdier feel when pressing down the keys. On the other hand, the Orange Sea's shorter 3.6 mm travel may satisfy gamers or typists seeking faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation. Those who prefer a more abrupt and responsive experience would likely lean towards the Haimu Orange Sea, whereas the KTT Peach would be a better choice for users who appreciate the traditional depth of a longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79, whereas the KTT Peach comes in at $2.91.
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, the Haimu Orange Sea switch delivers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether it's at home or in the office. This neutrality means it won't be too intrusive, allowing for quiet typing and a generally unobtrusive audio profile. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch offers a deep, thocky sound that is more pronounced, characterized by a low-pitched tone that adds a certain richness to the auditory experience. While the Orange Sea’s sound is designed to blend into the background, the Peach switch is more assertive, providing a sensory satisfaction that some users actively seek.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea is reputed for its impeccably smooth typing experience, designed to glide effortlessly under your fingers without any noticeable resistance or texture. This smoothness contributes to a seamless typing rhythm, making it ideal for those who type extensively. Conversely, the KTT Peach switch also promises a syrupy smooth feel, known for its mild characteristics. This means that while it may not be as radically different from the Orange Sea, it still offers a gentle typing experience that many find comfortable and approachable, striking a balance that appeals to both novice and experienced typists.
In summary, while both switches flaunt their smoothness, they diverge in their sound profiles. The Haimu Orange Sea offers a more neutral, subtle audio experience, while the KTT Peach provides a deep, thocky resonance that some users may find more satisfying. While the feel of both switches ensures a comfortable typing experience, the Orange Sea's emphasis on smoothness sets it apart from the mild characteristics of the Peach. Ultimately, both switches will cater well to users seeking linear options; the choice between them hinges on individual preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Haimu Orange Sea and KTT Peach linear switches, your personal preferences and typing environment play a significant role. If you favor a lighter actuation force and a perfectly smooth experience with a neutral sound profile, the Haimu Orange Sea is the way to go. Its 45 grams of bottom-out force offers a feather-light feel that can enhance your speed and reduce fatigue during long typing sessions, making it an excellent choice for fast typists or gamers who require rapid responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly weightier action that provides a bit more feedback, the KTT Peach switches, with their 53 grams of bottom-out force, might be more appealing. These switches not only deliver a syrupy smooth typing experience but also produce a deeper, thocky sound profile that can add a satisfying auditory element to your typing. Given their medium-light force and mild characteristics, the KTT Peach is also versatile enough for a variety of settings, from a casual home environment to a more professional workspace. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize the lightness and neutrality of the Orange Sea or the rich sound and dependable feel of the KTT Peach.