KTT Kang White vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the KTT Orange are two popular options to consider. The Kang White switch is well-known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, offering a dazzling typing sound. Its self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness during typing. On the other hand, the Orange switch boasts a bouncy type feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, this switch offers a slick and frictionless typing experience. It also features a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches provide excellent factory-lubing, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Kang White and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be effectively used in both switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Kang White or the Orange, you can expect similar acoustic qualities and visual effects when it comes to the top housing.
However, the differences arise in the bottom housing material used in these switches. The Kang White features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon typing. On the other hand, the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares the same traits as the top housing in terms of sound profile. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when bottoming out the keys with the Orange switch.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the bottom housing material plays a significant role. Pressing down on the Kang White switch will provide a different sound and feel compared to the Orange switch due to the different bottom housing materials. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced more by the Kang White's nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the top housing material, which remains consistent between the Kang White and the Orange switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some noteworthy differences. The Kang White requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Orange, which needs 46 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kang White is heavier at 58 grams while the Orange comes in at 53 grams.
Considering the weight of the switches, both options fall within the medium range. However, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Orange switch as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. This lighter force allows for more extended typing sessions, making it ideal for work or marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more robust and substantial typing feel may opt for the KTT Kang White switch, as its higher bottom out force provides a firmer push sensation.
In summary, although the actuation forces are similar, the Kang White switch has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Orange switch. This means that users can expect a slightly different typing experience with each option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing sensation.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different travel distances. The Kang White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0 mm distance of the Kang White is more traditional, providing a sense of depth and a longer travel experience. On the other hand, the Orange with its 3.5 mm travel distance is more shallow, offering a quicker response time, which is preferred by gamers. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. If you desire a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch would be a suitable option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more pronounced key press, the longer travel distance of the Kang White switch would be more appropriate.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 Kang White linear switch is best known for its dazzling, low-pitched typing sound. The switch provides an unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile as well, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also offers a slick, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches provide smooth key travel, with the Kang White being self-lubricating and the Orange having excellent factory-lubing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Kang White's specific qualities are unknown. However, the KTT Orange switch is described as bouncy and frictionless. The Orange switch provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. It also offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys, resulting in a fluid travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Kang White and KTT Orange switches have their own unique qualities. The Kang White is known for its dazzling sound and unparalleled smoothness, while the Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. While the specific feel of the Kang White switch is unknown, both switches promise a smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch and a medium-light bottom out force, the Orange switch with its 53 grams of bottom out force would be a good choice for you. The Orange switch is best known for its bouncy and frictionless feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. It also offers a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Kang White switch with its 58 grams of bottom out force would be a suitable option. The Kang White switch stands out with its exquisite poppy linear switch design and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. Both switches offer their unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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