KTT Orange vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Orange and the Everglide Oreo. The KTT Orange is a linear switch that boasts a bouncy type feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring. With a polycarbonate milky top housing and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, this switch offers a slick and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo is a tactile switch that provides a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. This switch offers a medium light tactility, striking the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, typing on the Everglide Oreo produces a subtle and mellow sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Everglide Oreo, specifically the polycarbonate top and bottom housings, have several similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing lighting effect.
However, despite these similarities, there may be differences between the top and bottom housing materials of these switches. If the top and bottom housings are different, each housing material will contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may have similar sound profiles due to the use of polycarbonate, the distribution of these qualities may vary depending on the specific design of the top and bottom housings.
Overall, the similarity of using polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of the KTT Orange and Everglide Oreo suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, while its translucency enhances the visual aesthetics for those who utilize RGB lighting. Whether the housings are the same or different for a particular switch, understanding the influence of the top and bottom housing materials allows users to have greater control and customization over their overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, we can see that both switches fall under the medium-light category. The KTT Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Oreo has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams.
In terms of actuation force, the Orange requires a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Oreo, but the difference is minimal. Both switches offer a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions.
When it comes to the bottom out force, the Oreo requires a slightly higher force to fully press down compared to the Orange. This might provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, the difference in bottom out force between the two switches is again relatively small.
Overall, both switches offer a similar level of actuation force and bottom out force. Whether one prefers a slightly lighter or heavier switch is a matter of personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the KTT Orange, whereas those seeking a slightly more substantial feel may lean towards the Everglide Oreo. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for a range of users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it is evident that the Oreo has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Orange's 3.5 mm. The Oreo's travel distance falls within the traditional range, providing a satisfactory depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the Orange offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more substantial experience.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Orange switch offers a low-pitched profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches will have a deeper and mellower tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switch has a unique acoustic signature described as "chirpy." This suggests that there may be a slight squeak to the sound produced by these switches, setting them apart from others. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch is described as bouncy. This means that the keys will provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, these switches are noted to be frictionless, resulting in an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Everglide Oreo switch is described as accented, indicating that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It falls into the category of medium tactile switches, offering a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Oreo switch is described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactility with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the KTT Orange and Everglide Oreo switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, a bouncy and frictionless feel, whereas the Oreo switch offers a chirpy sound profile, an accented and stepped feel. Both switches aim to deliver a refined typing experience with their unique characteristics. If you prefer a bass-heavy and mellow sound with a slick typing experience, the Orange switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique acoustic signature with a satisfying medium tactile feedback, the Oreo switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your preference will depend on the specific qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its bouncy and spring-like feel, the Orange switch provides a lively sensation and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the 22mm long spring adds a bouncy feel to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium light tactility and a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. While they have a subtle, mellow sound profile, they also boast an accented tactility, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. In the end, both the KTT Orange and Everglide Oreo switches offer unique features and benefits, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your personal preferences and typing style.
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