KTT Phalaenopsis vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
There are two mechanical keyboard switches that stand out for their unique features and impeccable performance: the KTT Phalaenopsis and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Phalaenopsis switch is renowned for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, which allows for effortless typing and minimal finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. With a satisfying tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a medium tactile feel, providing a precise and comfortable typing experience with a satisfying level of resistance. While these switches are not only known for their tactile feedback, they are also designed to be remarkably quiet, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the TTC Silent Bluish White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and visual appeal from both the Phalaenopsis and Silent Bluish White switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The KTT Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the TTC Silent Bluish White adopts a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Silent Bluish White creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate used in the Phalaenopsis. Nylon is known for being a relatively softer plastic, which absorbs more sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on the Silent Bluish White will provide a different tactile and auditory experience compared to typing on the Phalaenopsis.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the TTC Silent Bluish White result in different sound profiles and tactile sensations. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, the Silent Bluish White brings in a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. Users who prefer a sharper and crisper sound with a clear resonance may lean towards the Phalaenopsis, while those who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound experience may opt for the Silent Bluish White. Nevertheless, both switches offer quality materials that enhance typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences.
In terms of actuation force, the Phalaenopsis requires 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Bluish White requires a slightly higher force of 42 grams. Both switches fall into the lighter category, making them suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where a lighter touch is desired. The force required to trigger a keystroke is important for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, both the Phalaenopsis and the Silent Bluish White have a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that despite the slight difference in actuation force, both switches require the same amount of force to press all the way down. This is beneficial for those who desire a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of pressing the keys with a stronger push.
Overall, the Phalaenopsis is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Silent Bluish White, while both switches have the same bottom out force. These differences may be subtle, but they can make a difference for individuals who have specific preferences regarding the force required for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Phalaenopsis falls into the more traditional range with its 4 mm travel distance, offering a standard amount of depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers as it allows for faster response times. If you value responsiveness, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the TTC switch would be the better option for you. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be the more suitable choice.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer a bassy and thocky sound profile during key presses. The lower frequency range of these switches provides a deep and rich sound, reminiscent of bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switches produce a muted sound. These switches are designed to minimize noise and create a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches prioritize reducing noise, but the Phalaenopsis switches provide a deeper and richer sound profile, while the Silent Bluish Whites focus on creating a more muted typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are described as stepped switches. This means they have a two-stage feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The tactile feedback of these switches is satisfying and discernible, providing a delightful typing experience. The TTC Silent Bluish Whites, on the other hand, are described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished switches. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. The sound and feel of the Silent Bluish Whites are approachable to most, as they stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Phalaenopsis switches providing a stepped feel and the Silent Bluish Whites offering a buttery and polished sensation.
Considering the available information, the KTT Phalaenopsis and TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer different subjective qualities. The Phalaenopsis switches provide a bassy and thocky sound profile, while the Silent Bluish Whites produce a muted sound. In terms of feel, the Phalaenopsis switches have a stepped tactile feel, whereas the Silent Bluish Whites offer a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, one may find the deep and rich sound and stepped feel of the Phalaenopsis switches more appealing. On the other hand, those who prioritize a quieter typing experience and a smooth, uniform sensation may prefer the Silent Bluish Whites. It is important to note that the final sound and feel of the switches may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is an excellent choice. With its 50g bottom out force and beautiful translucent design, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized even during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deep and rich sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a precise and comfortable typing experience with a medium level of resistance, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is a perfect option. With its 50g bottom out force and satisfying level of tactility, you can enjoy a comfortable typing experience without the loud noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent Bluish White switch produces a softer and quieter sound, making it ideal for office or shared living space use.
Overall, both switches have their unique advantages. The Phalaenopsis switch excels in providing a delightful typing experience with its light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump, while the Silent Bluish White switch offers a precise and comfortable typing experience with its medium tactility and quiet operation. Whether you prefer a deeper sound and stepped feel with the Phalaenopsis or a buttery and polished typing experience with the Silent Bluish White, both switches are sure to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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