KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Type L offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch loved for its light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. With a satisfying tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, a linear switch, stands out for its lightness, requiring only 45g to bottom out. It offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The Phalaenopsis is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky', while the Type L is described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Type L, we see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Type L incorporates a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is rounder and duller compared to polycarbonate. While the top housings provide a significant impact on the sound upon key release, the bottom housings influence the bottom-out sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Phalaenopsis continues to utilize polycarbonate, offering the same sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile as its top housing. The Type L, however, features a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the Phalaenopsis. Despite the material differences between the two switches, it is clear that the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing feel of each switch.
In conclusion, while the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Type L may differ in their housing materials, both switches are designed to offer a unique typing experience based on the characteristics of their respective materials. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Phalaenopsis deliver a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon housings of the Type L produce a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer the crispness of polycarbonate or the roundness of nylon, both switches provide distinct tactile and auditory feedback based on their chosen housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Phalaenopsis has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams. Both switches offer a lighter typing experience, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. However, the Phalaenopsis may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether one prefers a slightly lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Consequently, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches, as they both offer a consistent and identical tactile experience. Therefore, whether selecting the Phalaenopsis or Type L switch, users can expect to receive similar results in terms of travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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 sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying sound during key presses. This sound signature can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a rich auditory feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound profile, delivering a dampened sound that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the bassy and thocky sound of the Phalaenopsis or the neutral and subdued sound of the Type L.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is characterized as a stepped switch, providing a tactile feedback that feels like it has two stages during each keystroke. This can offer a more nuanced typing experience compared to other switches, as users can feel distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal exertion from the fingers. This can reduce finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, making it comfortable for tasks such as gaming, schoolwork, or office work. Users can choose between the stepped feel of the Phalaenopsis or the feathery and easy-to-press sensation of the Type L based on their typing preferences and ergonomic needs.
In conclusion, both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phalaenopsis provides a bassy and thocky sound profile along with a stepped tactile feel, while the Type L delivers a neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the rich auditory feedback and nuanced feel of the Phalaenopsis or the gentle resistance and reduced finger fatigue of the Type L. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more pronounced tactile bump and an effortless typing experience with a beautiful sound profile characterized as "bassy" or "thocky," the Phalaenopsis switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a neutral sound profile described as "subdued," and a feathery, easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Gateron Type L switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound signature.
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