KTT Phalaenopsis vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience. Two popular options to explore are the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, and the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch. The Phalaenopsis switches are renowned for their beautiful translucent design and boast a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged sessions. With a satisfying tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are known for their attractive pink and clear housings and offer a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. These switches are categorized as low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities and benefits. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and the KTT Strawberry both feature polycarbonate housing materials for their top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. This is due to the material's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from polycarbonate's translucency, making it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal when using either the Phalaenopsis or the Strawberry.
However, where the Phalaenopsis and the Strawberry differ is in their specific design and branding. While both switches share the same polycarbonate housing material, they may have distinctive features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The naming and description of each switch suggest individual branding and positioning within the market. Therefore, users may choose one over the other based on their personal preferences or specific needs.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which is experienced when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. As such, users can expect a nuanced experience with the Phalaenopsis and the Strawberry, as the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Strawberry requires a slightly heavier force of 43 grams to initiate a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis is also lighter at 50 grams, compared to the Strawberry's 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis would be a suitable option. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier keystrokes, making it ideal for individuals who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Strawberry provides a more substantial push feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can offer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
It's important to note that while the Phalaenopsis is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, and the Strawberry is comparatively heavier, they both fall within the range of what is considered acceptable for comfortable typing. Therefore, even though they have different force requirements, individuals can still achieve similar results in terms of typing experience with both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience and can greatly influence user preference. When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we find that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and familiar tactile feedback throughout their typing experience. Whether you opt for the Phalaenopsis or the Strawberry, both switches offer the same travel distance, ensuring a similar typing experience and providing users with their desired level of key impact and responsiveness.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky characteristics. Bassy switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, thocky switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as low-pitched, which means it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as stepped. This means that it has a two-stage feel, with mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. In comparison to hypertactile switches, which have a more pronounced bump throughout the keystroke, stepped switches provide a more subtle tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. A frictionless switch offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. Meanwhile, silky switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Buttery switches offer a seamless and uniform typing sensation, and polished switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. All of these qualities contribute to the smoothness and ease of typing with the KTT Strawberry linear switch.
Overall, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, with a bassy and thocky sound profile. It has a stepped feel, with mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a smooth and comfortable actuation, with a low-pitched sound profile. It has a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing. While both switches have their own unique qualities, if you prefer a smoother typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a tactile bump and a deeper sound profile, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be a better match for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is the way to go. This switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a satisfying tactile feedback while minimizing finger fatigue. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone during key presses. As for feel, the Phalaenopsis can be described as a stepped switch, offering a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more frictionless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be your best choice. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch offers a comfortable feel with reliable performance. In terms of sound, the Strawberry switch provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, your decision between the two switches should be based on your preference for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prioritize a lighter actuation force and discernible tactile bump (Phalaenopsis) or a smoother and more frictionless typing experience (Strawberry). By understanding your preferences and needs, you can choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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