KTT Orange vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Orange and the Kailh Sage. The KTT Orange switches are known for their bouncy feel, enhanced by a 22mm long spring, providing a unique typing experience. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vibrant orange nylon bottom housing, these switches offer a slick and frictionless typing experience. Additionally, they produce a pleasant low-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the Kailh Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience that is invigorating and sharp. They have a relatively heavy weight, which adds to the satisfying crunchiness of the clicks. Both switches have their merits, providing different typing experiences to suit individual preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Kailh Sage, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is particularly useful when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, both the Orange and the Sage will provide similar sound characteristics and visual appeal when it comes to their top housings.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ. The Orange utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which will contribute to the overall sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate will create a clearer and more resonant bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Sage features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the switch is pressed. Therefore, the Sage will provide a different typing experience compared to the Orange, with a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound.
In summary, while both the KTT Orange and Kailh Sage use polycarbonate for their top housings, providing similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits, they differ in their bottom housings. The Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound upon bottoming out, while the Sage's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials between the two switches will impact the overall typing experience and sound characteristics when using the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences. The Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams, while the Sage switch does not have an available measurement for its actuation force. However, the Orange switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. In contrast, the Sage switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy pressure required to fully press down the key.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider, as it affects the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Orange switch may be more appealing, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and provides a comfortable typing experience for longer periods. This characteristic makes the Orange switch suitable for individuals who use their keyboards for extended work or gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, the heavier bottom out force of the Sage switch would be more suitable. The 70-gram bottom out force of the Sage switch provides a noticeably firmer and more satisfying keystroke, which some users find preferable.
Although the actuation force of the Sage switch is unavailable, it is important to note that both switches provide similar actuation forces, as the actuation force of the Orange switch is within the standard range of most mechanical switches. Therefore, if a user desires a similar actuation force to the Orange switch, they can expect to achieve comparable results with the Sage switch.
In summary, the KTT Orange linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange switch offers a medium-light actuation force and bottom out force, while the Sage switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force. The choice between the two depends on individual preference, with the Orange switch providing a lighter and more comfortable typing experience, while the Sage switch offers a stronger push and a more substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there is a minimal difference of 0.1 mm. The Orange switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sage switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular in recent years. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances as they provide faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, either switch would provide similar results. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Sage switch may be the better option with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing/gaming style.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 switch provides a low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a deeper, bass-heavy tone, giving a more mellow sound experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as "crunchy," which is typically associated with clicky switches. It has a sharp, crisp sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. However, if you're looking for a low-pitched sound, the Orange switch would be the better choice, while the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, offering a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The Sage switch has a distinct tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. If you prefer a bouncy and frictionless feel, the Orange switch would be the better option, while the Sage switch provides a more tactile and reactive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Orange linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky 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 feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch has a distinct, crunchy clicky sound and an invigorating, sharp feel with a strong tactile bump. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two switches. If you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound and a bouncy, frictionless feel, the Orange switch would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a sharp, crisp clicky sound and an invigorating tactile feedback, the Sage switch would be the more suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a slick, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be an ideal choice for you. With its bouncy and frictionless feel, these switches provide a spring-like feedback and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and desire a distinct clicky typing experience with a more invigorating and sharp feel, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be the better option for you. The Sage switches offer a pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Orange and Kailh Sage will depend on your personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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