TTC Bluish White vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Lightning. The Bluish White is a tactile switch that offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Lightning is a linear switch that is known for its "speed" capabilities, making it perfect for those moments when milliseconds can decide the outcome. Typing on the Lightning provides a slick feel with a clacky sound profile. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the KTT Lightning both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This material choice creates a similar effect in both switches, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Bluish White and the Lightning feature nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a different sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This can be appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy a more subdued sound.
When comparing the overall impact of the top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note that they contribute to different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when releasing the key. By incorporating different materials for the top and bottom housings, both the Bluish White and the Lightning are able to provide a well-rounded typing experience that encompasses various sound elements.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are some similarities as well as differences. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that the amount of force required to press the switch all the way down is the same for both options. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far they need to press the keys.
However, there is a slight difference in the actuation force between the two switches. The TTC Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the KTT Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams. Although this difference is minimal, it means that the Bluish White switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Lightning switch. This could result in a lighter and potentially more responsive typing experience with the Bluish White switch.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, allowing them to continue typing for longer periods without fatigue. In this case, both switches can provide a lighter experience as their actuation forces are relatively low.
On the other hand, there are those who prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel while typing. These users may find the 43-gram actuation force of the Lightning switch more suitable for their preferences.
In summary, while both the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Lightning switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, the Bluish White switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Lightning switch's 43 grams. This minor difference may lead to a subtly different typing experience and can cater to individuals who prefer a lighter or slightly heavier actuation force respectively.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the Bluish White has a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lightning has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3 mm. The Bluish White falls within the traditional range of travel distances, providing a moderate depth for key presses. On the other hand, the Lightning is on the shallower end of the spectrum. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as they offer quicker response times. Therefore, if a fast and responsive keyboard is your priority, the Lightning switch would be the preferable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial depth and find short travel distances to be too abrupt, the Bluish White switch with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. This means that the switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound. It is also mentioned that the Lightning switch has a high-pitched sound characteristic and a chirpy element, making it unique. It is important to note that the actual sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile, the Bluish White switches will provide a satisfying and poppy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a unique chirpy element, the Lightning switches would be a better fit.
When it comes to feel, both the Bluish White and Lightning switches share some similar qualities. Both switches are described as having a subtle resistance, providing a gentle typing experience without being too feather-light. This means that the switches offer a light typing feel that is suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The polished nature of the switches is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and factory lubing, reducing friction and promoting smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with their subtle resistance and polished feel.
Taking into consideration the available information, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound profile that offers a satisfying and poppy typing experience. Along with this, it offers a range of feel descriptors including buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience suitable for most users. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch delivers a clacky sound profile with high-pitched and chirpy characteristics, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. In terms of feel, the Lightning switch shares similar descriptors of subtlety and polish with the Bluish White switch, ensuring a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences. Whether you prefer a low-pitched sound with a range of feel descriptors or a clacky sound with high-pitched characteristics, both switches offer satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile, then the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches have a light bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a buttery and mild typing experience. They offer a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, making them suitable for most typists. Additionally, the Bluish White switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if milliseconds can decide whether you win or lose and you prefer a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be the better option for you. With the same bottom out force of 50 grams as the Bluish White, the Lightning switches provide a subtle resistance with a light typing feel. They also feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Lightning switches have a slightly higher-pitched, clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch ultimately depends on your preference for typing sound and feel. If you prioritize a poppy and snappy sound with a smoother typing experience, the Bluish White is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a faster switch with a slick feel and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch is the perfect fit. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for an enjoyable and satisfying keyboard experience.
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