KTT Peach vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Peach and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Peach switch is known for its linear design, boasting a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. With its low-pitched, neutral, and mild characteristics, it provides a comfortable and consistent typing sensation. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its tactile feedback. It features a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The satisfying and discernible 50g tactile force creates a delightful tactile bump with each keystroke. Categorized as bassy, stepped, and thocky, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Peach and KTT Phalaenopsis have similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for more transparency, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the clear housing indicates the presence of polycarbonate. Therefore, whether it's the Peach or the Phalaenopsis, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal.
However, the differences arise in the bottom housing materials of these switches. The Peach utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which brings a distinct characteristic to the typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the overall sound profile of the switch. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound.
As a result of the distinct top and bottom housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switch are divided accordingly. When pressing down on these switches, the bottom housing's characteristics become more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing the key will showcase the influence of the top housing on the sound produced. These differences in housing materials allow for nuanced variations in the overall typing experience between the KTT Peach and KTT Phalaenopsis, highlighting the importance of well-balanced design and material choices.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Peach linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Peach switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis switch's 37 grams, making it require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Peach switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Phalaenopsis switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that when pressing the Peach switch all the way down, it requires a slightly heavier force compared to the Phalaenopsis switch. Overall, the Peach switch offers a medium-light feel, while the Phalaenopsis switch provides a lighter experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a suitable choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel during their typing experience, the Peach switch would be the better option.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Peach linear 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 with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Therefore, there is no significant difference between the two switches in this aspect.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 Peach linear switch is best known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. It has a low-pitched sound, which means it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Peach switch also has a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is best known for its effortless typing experience and minimized finger fatigue. It has a light actuation force of 37g, making typing easy even during prolonged sessions. The Phalaenopsis switch also offers a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with its 50g tactile force. It produces a bassy sound, characterized by a deeper and richer tone, along with a thocky sound profile that is deep, rich, and satisfying.
Based on the available information, the Peach and Phalaenopsis switches have different sound profiles. The Peach switch is low-pitched and neutral, while the Phalaenopsis switch is bassy and thocky. This means that the Peach switch will have a more mellow and moderate sound, suitable for various purposes, while the Phalaenopsis switch will provide a deeper and richer sound with a satisfying thock.
In terms of feel, the Peach switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. The Phalaenopsis switch, on the other hand, is stepped, providing a tactile feedback with a mild feel. This means that the Peach switch will have a more middle-ground feel, while the Phalaenopsis switch will have a more pronounced tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Overall, the KTT Peach linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch differ in their subjective qualities. The Peach switch offers a syrupy smooth typing experience, a low-pitched sound, and a mild feel, while the Phalaenopsis switch provides an effortless typing experience, a bassy and thocky sound, and a stepped feel. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. By considering your preferences and the available information, you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and desired experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth and thocky typing experience, the KTT Peach switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in various environments such as home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch would be the way to go. With its beautiful translucent design and a light actuation force of 37g, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is significantly reduced, even during prolonged typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis switch also offers a bassy sound profile with a thocky sound when pressed and released, providing a deep and rich typing experience.
Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences. Whether you prioritize a smooth and thocky linear switch or a tactile switch with a satisfying bump, both the KTT Peach and Phalaenopsis switches are excellent options to consider for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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