KTT Orange vs. KTT Phalaenopsis

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its 22mm long spring and refined key travel. With its low-pitched sound profile, it offers a sleek and smooth feel while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. With a tactile force of 50g, it also provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with every keystroke. While the Orange switch is known for its bouncy and frictionless nature, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Orange Linear

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Orange and KTT Phalaenopsis have similar housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Visually, polycarbonate is commonly used in switches with clear housings, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting.

Although both switches share the same housing material, it is important to note that the qualities of the polycarbonate housing are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a key, you will primarily feel the impact and characteristics of the bottom housing. This impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when letting go of a key. This distinction highlights the importance of considering the overall sound experience when choosing between the KTT Orange and KTT Phalaenopsis.

In terms of housing materials, the KTT Orange and KTT Phalaenopsis offer similar characteristics due to their polycarbonate construction. Their translucent nature allows for enhanced visual effects when used with RGB lighting. However, the distinction between the top and bottom housing should not be overlooked. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the user's preferences and desired sound profile, the choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on how they prioritize these specific aspects of the typing or gaming experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Orange switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis switch's 37 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that a slightly stronger push is needed to trigger a keystroke on the Orange switch. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Orange switch is 53 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Orange switch requires a slightly heavier force to fully press down compared to the Phalaenopsis switch. In terms of weight, the Orange switch can be considered medium-light, while the Phalaenopsis switch is categorized as light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and heavier push feel, the Orange switch would be the ideal option. Despite these differences, both switches provide a tactile feedback and actuation mechanism that ensures a similar typing experience, making them suitable for different preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that the Orange offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Phalaenopsis falls within the standard range of 4.0 mm, while the Orange is on the shallower side with a 3.5 mm distance. However, the trend of shorter travel distances is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. In this case, the Orange would be the preferred option for those seeking a more responsive key feel. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press might lean towards the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Orange switch provides a low-pitched profile. This means that the sound produced by the Orange switch is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as both bassy and thocky. This implies that it offers a deeper, richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness of bass tones, with a satisfying and somewhat soft "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. 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 used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch is known for providing a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. With its 22mm long spring, the Orange switch offers a lively, spring-like feedback sensation that gives a rebound when pressed. It also boasts a frictionless design that minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when typing, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped. This means that it offers a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. While not as bouncy or frictionless as the Orange switch, the stepped feel of the Phalaenopsis switch still provides a discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delight.

In conclusion, the KTT Orange switch and KTT Phalaenopsis switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a stepped tactile feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, with the Orange switch emphasizing rebound and smoothness, and the Phalaenopsis switch focusing on a discernible tactile bump and reduced finger fatigue. While the sound and feel may differ, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences. Depending on your preferences, either switch can offer similar satisfactory results.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch is the perfect choice for you. With its 53g bottom out force and 22mm long spring, you can expect a smooth key travel and a low-pitched sound profile. The factory-lubing ensures minimal friction and maximum smoothness, enhancing your overall typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 50g and a light actuation force of 37g, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized, even during prolonged typing sessions. The satisfying tactile bump ensures each keystroke is a delightful experience.

When it comes to sound, the Orange switch offers a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper and richer sound, characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it produces a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying.

In terms of feel, the Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The keys have a lively feel, giving you rebound when pressed, and the switch offers a fluid travel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. You can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, which adds to its unique typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Orange switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis switch depends on your personal preference for switch weight, tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Consider your typing style, the level of tactile feedback you prefer, and the sound characteristics you find most pleasing. By understanding the specific attributes and differences of each switch, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more