KTT Orange vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role, particularly in the realm of linear switches. The KTT Orange switches are celebrated for their bouncy, frictionless typing experience, thanks to a well-engineered 22mm long spring and a combination of polycarbonate and nylon materials that produce a slick and low-pitched sound profile. Their factory-lubing further enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, making them ideal for users who prioritize a refined, responsive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a more understated auditory profile without compromising on performance. Both switches cater to different user preferences—whether you enjoy a bit of bounce in your keys or lean towards a more subdued typing sound. 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
46g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and the Haimu Orange Sea both feature polycarbonate top housings, which means they share several acoustic qualities that contribute to their sound profiles. Thanks to the use of polycarbonate, both switches are characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, attributed to the material's inherent stiffness. This rigidity allows for a more resonant and clear sound, making it particularly effective in producing an engaging auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate used in the top housing is beneficial for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as it allows light to pass through beautifully, elevating the aesthetic appeal of both switches when lit.
In contrast to their similarities in top housing, the KTT Orange and Haimu Orange Sea diverge in their bottom housing materials. The KTT Orange employs a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, which aligns its acoustic characteristics with those of its top housing. Consequently, this creates a cohesive sound that retains that sharpness and clarity throughout the switch’s full stroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The impact of this choice is significant, as nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This results in a warmer acoustic experience that contrasts with the KTT Orange's more nuanced sonic qualities, allowing for a varied typing experience between the two switches.
When considering the overall performance of these two switches, the different materials in their bottom housings lead to distinct tactile and auditory feedback. The KTT Orange's uniform polycarbonate construction ensures consistency in sound regardless of whether a user is pressing down or releasing the key, thus creating a seamless experience. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Haimu Orange Sea absorbs sound more effectively, delivering a deeper bottom-out sound while still capitalizing on the crispness introduced by the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while both switches can offer a captivating auditory experience, the interplay between the polycarbonate and nylon materials on their respective bottom housings results in unique acoustic signatures that cater to different user preferences and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch that provides a somewhat firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which makes it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. Consequently, those seeking a substantial feel may gravitate towards the heavier KTT Orange, while the lighter Haimu Orange Sea offers less resistance, making it ideal for prolonged use, especially in work or gaming contexts. Overall, if users desire a typing experience with less effort, the Haimu Orange Sea may be the better choice, while the KTT Orange will appeal to those who prefer a stronger push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there is a slight difference: the KTT Orange features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the KTT Orange the shorter option, which could provide faster response times that are often favored by gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, may offer a more substantial and satisfying depth for users who prefer a less abrupt feel when typing or gaming. Therefore, if you value responsiveness, the KTT Orange would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a fuller travel experience might lean towards the Haimu Orange Sea.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Orange linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, which lends a mellow and bass-heavy tone to each keystroke. This less intrusive auditory experience makes it quite suitable for environments where you might want to minimize noise. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Haimu Orange Sea switch are not specified, leaving its acoustic qualities unknown. It’s important to note that the overall sound of both switches can also be influenced by other factors, such as the type of keyboard they are mounted in and the choice of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a distinctly bouncy typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback that creates a lively sensation while typing. This feature is complemented by its frictionless design, which ensures a smooth and effortless key travel, minimizing any sensation of resistance. While the Haimu Orange Sea switches are noted to provide an impeccably smooth typing feel, further specifics on their tactile feedback and overall experience are not available. Thus, while the KTT Orange is known for its rebound characteristics, the exact feel of the Orange Sea remains somewhat ambiguous.
In conclusion, the KTT Orange linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound and bouncy, frictionless typing feel, making it a great option for those seeking a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The Haimu Orange Sea switch, while highlighted for its smoothness, lacks detailed information in both sound and tactile response. As a result, if you're looking for a switch with definite auditory and tactile characteristics, the KTT Orange may be the more reliable choice. However, if you prioritize an unknown and potentially unique experience, the Haimu Orange Sea still holds promise for exploration in the linear switch realm.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a bouncy feel with a bit more resistance, the KTT Orange switch, with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, will likely appeal to you. This switch's unique characteristics—such as its long spring for a lively rebound, a smooth and frictionless key travel, and its low-pitched sound profile—set the stage for an enjoyable and dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more neutral typing experience, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its lighter 45-gram bottom out force, could be the right fit. This switch offers an impeccably smooth feel without the bounciness, making it ideal for those who prioritize a seamless and quiet typing environment. In summary, consider your keyboard usage: for gaming or fast typing sessions, the KTT Orange might offer the feedback you crave, while for long hours of typing or a quieter workspace, the Haimu Orange Sea could provide the comfort and ease you seek.
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