Outemu Green vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for users. The Outemu Green switch is best known for its audible click sound, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch stands out for its light actuation force of 37g, minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. While the Green switch is categorized as clicky, the Phalaenopsis switch falls under the categories of 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own advantages and reasons why you may want to choose it for your keyboard. 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
65g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Green and the KTT Phalaenopsis both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Outemu Green differs in its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound, offering a different typing experience.
While both the Outemu Green and the KTT Phalaenopsis utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences in their bottom housings result in distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Phalaenopsis maintains a crisper and more resonant sound. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be most noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the unique characteristics of each material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Green and the KTT Phalaenopsis play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing materials results in varying sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Phalaenopsis. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch differ significantly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Green has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the KTT Phalaenopsis, while those who enjoy a more tactile and robust typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Green. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key outfitted with either switch, users will experience a similar amount of key travel. Both switches offer a standard distance for a satisfying typing experience. It can be concluded that in terms of travel distance, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch provide users with equivalent results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Green comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Green switch is known for generating a loud clicky noise with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that some users find to be reminiscent of a typewriter. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, creating a deeper and richer sound during key presses that can be quite pleasing to the ears. Both switches will produce audible feedback, but the Phalaenopsis switch may offer a more nuanced and satisfying sound experience, especially when paired with a compatible keyboard and keycap set.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Green switch is praised for its tactile bump and clicky feedback, providing a distinct physical sensation with each keystroke. In comparison, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is characterized as having a stepped tactile feel, offering a more subtle tactile experience with a discernible bump that does not feel as pronounced as other tactile switches. The light actuation force of the Phalaenopsis switch also contributes to a smoother typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the Green switch may offer a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a gentler and more refined typing feel that some users may prefer.
Overall, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Green switch is known for its loud clicky sound and pronounced tactile bump, while the Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile with a stepped tactile feel for a smoother typing experience. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Green switch offering a more traditional clicky typing experience and the Phalaenopsis switch providing a more refined and gentle tactile feel. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap sets will help determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy 80g bottom out force and a clicky typing sound, the Green switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter 50g bottom out force, a tactile bump for feedback, and a more effortless typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch is a great option. Additionally, if you appreciate a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Phalaenopsis switch offers bassy and thocky characteristics. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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