KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to choose from, each catering to different preferences and needs. Two popular choices in the market are the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch. The Phalaenopsis is renowned for its light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during extended typing sessions. With a tactile force of 50g, each keystroke provides a satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise for a silent typing experience. Each switch has its unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and usage scenarios. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Phalaenopsis uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Zero Degree 0° utilizes nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of functionality, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing material, with the Phalaenopsis providing a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, and the Zero Degree 0° offering a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and Gateron Zero Degree 0° play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. While both switches use polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the Phalaenopsis stands out for also incorporating polycarbonate in the bottom housing, resulting in a more uniform sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0°'s use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound profile and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis is lighter in both aspects. The Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams and no specified bottom out force. The difference in actuation force means that the Phalaenopsis requires less force to register a keystroke compared to the Zero Degree 0°. This lighter actuation force may appeal to users who want a more effortless typing experience. However, the Zero Degree 0° might be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree switch. The Phalaenopsis offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times, making it ideal for gamers or individuals who prefer quicker key presses. Although they vary slightly in travel distance, both switches offer a different typing experience to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key travel depth.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky qualities, providing a deep and rich sound profile that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is relatively unknown in terms of sound characteristics. However, both switches are likely to produce similar results in sound quality when installed in the same keyboard and with the same keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped feel, offering a tactile experience with two distinct stages during the keystroke. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not provided. Despite this difference in description, both switches are designed to provide a unique typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch stands out for its bassy and thocky sound profile, as well as its stepped feel that adds a layer of tactility to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is praised for its innovative design that focuses on smoothness, stability, and sound reduction. While there are differences in the subjective qualities of these two switches, both offer distinct advantages that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump with a bassy or thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value silent typing, smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel with no bottom out force, the Zero Degree 0° could be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer unique features and advantages, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing experience.
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