KTT Orange vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and Gateron Type L offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile, making it perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' Project Rehash and stands out as the lightest in the series, requiring only 45g to bottom out. Its sound signature leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, providing a neutral and subdued typing experience that is easy to press. 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

Gateron Type L Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Gateron Type L, it is clear that they both prioritize sound profile but achieve it in different ways. The Orange's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition, which resonates more clearly. In contrast, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound. While both materials aim to enhance the typing experience, they do so through distinct sound qualities.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the KTT Orange and the Gateron Type L reflect the same contrast in materials as their respective top housings. The Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharp and clear sound profile, while the Type L's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in stiffness between the two plastics directly impact the sound and feel of typing on these switches, with polycarbonate producing a crisper sound on bottom-out and nylon creating a duller sound.

In terms of overall typing experience, the utilization of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can have varying effects. The bottom housing material significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing the key. This division of qualities allows for a nuanced and unique typing experience with each switch, whether it be the sharp and resonant profile of the KTT Orange or the deep and round profile of the Gateron Type L. Both switches offer their own distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.

Weight

In comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is the lighter option in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light switch overall. On the other hand, the KTT Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, presenting a medium-light option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Type L would be the preferred choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the KTT Orange may be more suitable due to its slightly heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the lighter Type L being ideal for longer typing sessions and the Orange providing a more tactile typing experience.

Travel distance

The KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have different travel distances. The Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Type L has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Typically, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the shallowest. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Orange switch a popular choice in that regard. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Type L switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and response time. Both switches offer unique advantages, but the Orange switch provides a quicker, snappier response, while the Type L switch offers a more deliberate key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched tone, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature with a subdued quality, producing a dampened sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and setup, the Orange switch may offer a deeper and more resonant sound, while the Type L switch provides a more subtle and gentle acoustics.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange linear switch is described as bouncy and frictionless, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, providing an exceptionally light touch with minimal exertion required, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Orange switch may cater to those who prefer a livelier and rebounding key press experience, while the Type L switch appeals to individuals looking for a comfortable and effortless typing feel.

Overall, both the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a bouncy and low-pitched sound with a frictionless typing experience, while the Type L switch offers a neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel. Depending on your typing style and preference for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, delivering similar results in terms of smoothness and responsiveness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, along with a neutral and subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type L switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more