KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Everglide Sunset Yellow. The Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch, known for its effortless typing experience and minimized finger fatigue, thanks to its light actuation force of 37g. The satisfying tactile bump at 50g ensures that each keystroke is delightful. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky', the Phalaenopsis offers a unique typing experience with its translucent design. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow is a linear switch that stands out with its Creamsicle-colored appearance. This switch provides a captivating sound profile resembling the collision of mahjong tiles, creating an indulgent typing experience. Its medium-weight design caters to a wide range of users, and its unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel. The combination of very short travel and a long-pole stem ensures a sharper and highly responsive typing experience. Classified as 'Bassy', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', and 'Thocky', the Sunset Yellow switch brings a polished and smooth typing experience to the table. 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

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch features a POM top housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound profile, which is on the deeper side and tends to be more muted.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile, particularly during the bottom-out action. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate translates to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow switch incorporates a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted.

While the housing materials of the Phalaenopsis and the Sunset Yellow switches provide contrasting sound profiles, it is worth noting that they both aim to create a pleasant typing experience. Both switches prioritize the unique characteristics of their respective housing materials to deliver distinct sound profiles. Therefore, whether it is the sharp clarity of polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Sunset Yellow, users can expect satisfying typing experiences from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches rests on personal preference for the desired sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. Firstly, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Sunset Yellow requires slightly more force at 43 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis will register keystrokes with a gentler touch, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Phalaenopsis requiring 50 grams and the Sunset Yellow requiring 51 grams. This means that regardless of the switch chosen, the user will experience a similar level of resistance when fully pressing down on the keys. Overall, the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience, while the Sunset Yellow provides a slightly heavier touch for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel.

Travel distance

The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch have different travel distances. The Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the most traditional distance, while the Sunset Yellow has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a bit shallower. The difference in travel distance can impact the typing experience and preference of users. Gamers, for example, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Sunset Yellow a potential choice for them. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down keys might prefer the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that when you press and release the keys, you can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. The lower frequency range of these switches resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as a stepped switch. This means that it provides a more mild tactile experience with two stages to the keystroke. You can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, but the overall tactile bump is not as pronounced as with hypertactile switches. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel. The unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding sensation. Typing on these switches is smooth, buttery, and effortless, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The Phalaenopsis provides effortless typing with a satisfying tactile bump, while the Sunset Yellow offers a captivating sound profile and a smooth, gliding feel. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can provide a delightful typing experience. If you're looking for a deeper and richer sound, both switches deliver a bassy and thocky profile. Similarly, if you enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience, both switches offer qualities such as creaminess, frictionlessness, and polish.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Phalaenopsis offers a light bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Yellow provides a slightly heavier bottom out force of 51 grams. If you prefer a lighter touch and a discernible tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-weight switch with a distinct gliding feel and a sharper typing experience, the Sunset Yellow may be more to your liking.

In terms of sound, both switches offer a similar bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by deep and rich tones during key presses. So, if you enjoy a captivating sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, both switches would satisfy your auditory preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Phalaenopsis provides a stepped feel, offering a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, thanks to its POM stem and factory lube method. With the Sunset Yellow, you can expect a smooth and effortless glide as your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke.

Ultimately, the choice between the Phalaenopsis and the Sunset Yellow depends on your individual preferences. If you prioritize a lighter touch and a discernible tactile bump, along with a stepped feel, the Phalaenopsis would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a distinct gliding feel, along with a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, the Sunset Yellow would be the ideal option for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more