KTT Orange vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Orange and the Outemu Phoenix. While both switches offer their own unique qualities, they cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switch is best known for its bouncy type feel, achieved by its 22mm long spring. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vibrant orange nylon bottom housing, this switch provides a slick, frictionless typing experience accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most distinctive clicky switches on the market. The Phoenix switch offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, giving users a crunchy and polished experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Orange and the Outemu Phoenix switches are both made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a desirable choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through.
Although both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, they may still offer slightly different experiences due to their individual manufacturing processes. While the qualities of the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key, the qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. Therefore, while the housings may be made of the same material, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in slight variations in the overall sound and sensation.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their housing materials. The clear nature of polycarbonate allows for a transparent housing, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switches. This transparency is particularly advantageous when using RGB lighting, as it helps to showcase the vibrant colors and effects. Whether it is the KTT Orange or the Outemu Phoenix, the polycarbonate housing ensures that the switches not only deliver a satisfying sound profile but also contribute to an attractive and visually pleasing keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see some key differences. The Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams, which means a relatively light touch is required to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force is slightly higher at 53 grams, providing a medium-light overall typing experience. In contrast, the Phoenix switch does not provide specific information about its actuation force. However, its bottom out force is stated as 62 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Orange switch.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the Orange are favored by those who prefer longer typing sessions or engage in extended gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for easier keystrokes and potentially reduces finger fatigue. However, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of a stronger push. For this group, switches with heavier forces, such as the Phoenix with its 62 grams bottom out force, may be preferable.
While the actuation force of the Phoenix is unknown, it is clear that the Orange switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. If the actuation force of the Phoenix is similar or lighter, users can expect similar results to the Orange switch in terms of ease of typing and reduced finger fatigue. However, without specific information on the actuation force of the Phoenix, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison.
In summary, the KTT Orange linear switch has a medium-light actuation force of 46 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams. Meanwhile, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a medium bottom out force of 62 grams but does not provide specific information about its actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can observe a slight difference. The Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of what is considered a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority, the Phoenix would be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the Orange's longer travel distance may provide a better experience. Ultimately, the difference between the two is relatively minimal, and both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The KTT Orange switch is best known for its low-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch has a crunchy sound profile. This type of sound is often associated with clicky switches and is described as sounding like stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The keys have a lively feel and provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the user a sense of rebound when the keys are pressed. Additionally, the switch is designed with a polycarbonate milky top housing, a long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing. These materials contribute to a slick and frictionless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This polished feel can be attributed to either the materials used in the switch or the factory lubing. With the Phoenix switch, users can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Orange switch and the Outemu Phoenix switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience. Meanwhile, the Phoenix switch has a crunchy sound profile and offers a polished, smooth typing experience. Depending on your personal preference, you can choose the switch that aligns with the sound and feel you desire. However, it's worth noting that the actual sound and feel may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, there are a few factors to consider. The Orange switch, with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, provides a slick and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. It features a bouncy feel and a fluid key travel, thanks to its 22mm long spring and excellent factory-lubing. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. While the Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless feel, the Phoenix switch is polished for a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for a low-pitched sound (Orange) or a crunchy sound (Phoenix) and your desired feel, whether it be bouncy and frictionless (Orange) or polished and smooth (Phoenix). Consider your typing style and preferences to make an informed decision.
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