Outemu Spring Breeze vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it becomes clear that each has its own unique advantages. The Spring Breeze is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a precise and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis stands out for its light actuation force of 37g and satisfying tactile bump, ideal for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis is also recognized for its 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky' characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer properties. While the Spring Breeze's nylon housing absorbs more sound, producing a duller sound, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound experience.
While both the Spring Breeze and the Phalaenopsis have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the overall sound profile of the switch will be a combination of the qualities each material brings. The nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper and crisper sound sensation. On the other hand, the top housing material of each switch will have a more significant influence on the sound when the key is released, with nylon creating a duller sound and polycarbonate producing a clearer sound.
In summary, the choice between the Outemu Spring Breeze and the KTT Phalaenopsis ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The softer nylon housing of the Spring Breeze provides a fuller sound with a duller tone, while the stiffer polycarbonate housing of the Phalaenopsis offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, giving users the opportunity to customize their keyboard sound based on their preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Spring Breeze being slightly heavier than the Phalaenopsis. The Spring Breeze has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Spring Breeze offers a slightly more substantial push feel compared to the lighter Phalaenopsis. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Phalaenopsis, whereas those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Spring Breeze. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The two switches are equal in this aspect, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Despite any other differences between the two switches, their travel distance remains the same.
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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is known for its "Bassy" and "Thocky" characteristics. The Spring Breeze's sound profile remains unknown, but the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deep, rich sound akin to lower frequency bass tones, producing a satisfying thud or knock when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch does not have a descriptor provided, while the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as "Stepped." This means that the Phalaenopsis switch provides an experience where the keystroke feels like it has two stages, offering a subtle pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Contrasted with hyper-tactile switches that provide a single distinct bump throughout the keystroke, the stepped feel of the Phalaenopsis switch may offer a more gradual tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles. While the sound of the Spring Breeze remains unspecified, the Phalaenopsis switch is known for its bassy and thocky characteristics, providing a deep and rich auditory experience. Similarly, the feel of the Spring Breeze is undefined, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a stepped tactile sensation with a light actuation force of 37g. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience you seek.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams with a clicky sound profile, the Spring Breeze may be the better option for you. However, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams with a tactile bump that minimizes finger fatigue and provides a delightful typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch would be the ideal choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch would cater to your preference. On the other hand, if you prefer a stepped feel in your switches, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a more mild tactile experience. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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