KTT Phalaenopsis vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Phalaenopsis and the KTT Wine Red offer unique experiences for users. The Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that boasts a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. With a satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch provides a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, creating an intoxicating typing experience. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky', the Phalaenopsis offers a unique combination of characteristics. Conversely, the Wine Red switch falls under the 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched' categories. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and KTT Wine Red share the same housing materials, with both featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in these housings contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create colorful effects.
However, despite their similarities in housing materials, the Phalaenopsis and Wine Red differ in their aesthetics. The Phalaenopsis is described as having a clear housing, which is more prone to showcasing the translucency of polycarbonate and allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Wine Red is not explicitly mentioned as having a clear housing, which suggests that it may have a different aesthetic appearance. While both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in terms of sound profile, the Phalaenopsis may be preferred by those who prioritize visual customization and vibrant lighting effects.
Overall, the impact of housing materials on the switches' sound profile and tactile experience is divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, the choice of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings ensures that these qualities are balanced and optimized for a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, compared to the Wine Red's slightly heavier 44 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis requires a gentler touch to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis requires 50 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Wine Red's 55 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis provides a more substantial typing experience when fully pressing down the keys.
Considering the weight of the switches, some users may prefer the Phalaenopsis for its lighter actuation force, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Wine Red with its slightly higher actuation force. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Phalaenopsis is lighter overall, while the Wine Red offers a slightly heavier bottom out force. Therefore, users seeking similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces can opt for either switch, with the Phalaenopsis being the lighter alternative and the Wine Red providing a slightly more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using these switches. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other, as they both have the same travel distance.
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 Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its effortless typing experience and minimal finger fatigue due to its light actuation force of 37g. It also provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, ensuring each keystroke is delightful. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that the switch produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is loved for its pillowy light type feel and deep, rich sound profile. However, specific information about the feel of the Wine Red switch is not provided in the given information. For sound, the Wine Red switch is described as bassy and low-pitched. This means that the switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
To conclude, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch excels in providing an effortless typing experience with its light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump. It offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red linear switch provides a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile described as bassy and low-pitched. Although specific information about the feel of the Wine Red switch is unknown, it is expected to provide a similar satisfying experience to the Phalaenopsis switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light bottom out force and a delightful typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its 50g tactile force and effortless typing feel, you can minimize finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is enjoyable. If you prefer a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be a great option. With its slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, the Wine Red offers a pleasing typing experience and a satisfyingly deep sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preferences for typing feel and sound. Whether you prioritize a lighter tactile switch like the Phalaenopsis or a pillowy light linear switch like the Wine Red, both options offer their own unique advantages for an enjoyable keyboarding experience.
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