Everglide Crystal Violet vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, two popular switches stand out for their unique characteristics and performance - the Everglide Crystal Violet and the KTT Lightning. The Crystal Violet switch is a tactile switch designed for those who value a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. With a light operating force of 45g, these switches offer a gentle and comfortable feel. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch produces a pleasantly mellow sound profile, leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum, thanks to the special use of ABS in the switch housings. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is a linear switch that excels in speed and responsiveness. These switches are perfect for situations where split-second decisions can determine victory or defeat. Typing on the Lightning switch provides a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, which adds a satisfying element to every keystroke. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best choice for your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the KTT Lightning differ significantly. The Crystal Violet utilizes ABS for both its top and bottom housing. ABS, commonly used in keycaps, is a relatively rare plastic for switch housings. This choice of material results in a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing on ABS switches. In contrast, the Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate allows for a translucent housing, which is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting.
Meanwhile, the Crystal Violet's bottom housing is also ABS, providing a similar low-pitched sound profile as its top housing. On the other hand, the Lightning incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a long-standing choice for switch housings due to its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
When it comes to the impact of housing on the overall typing experience, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing, regardless of material, predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. For the Crystal Violet, this means a low-pitched sound, while the Lightning with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing, be it ABS or polycarbonate, has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key.
In summary, the Everglide Crystal Violet and KTT Lightning differ in their housing materials, with Crystal Violet employing ABS for both top and bottom housings, and the Lightning incorporating polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. These variations lead to divergent sound profiles, with Crystal Violet producing low-pitched sounds and the Lightning offering sharper and higher-pitched tones. However, both switches showcase how different materials can shape the acoustic experience, whether it be the clarity and resonance of polycarbonate or the absorptive properties of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer relatively light forces. The Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches fall within the lighter range, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions.
While the Crystal Violet has slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Lightning, the difference is minimal. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the typing experience with these switches. The lighter actuation force allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, while the bottom out force provides a satisfying tactile feedback without causing excessive strain on fingers.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lightning switch due to its slightly lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter feel is ideal for individuals who require extended periods of typing or gaming without feeling fatigued.
On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Crystal Violet switch. The slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces offer a stronger push feel, providing a sense of satisfaction and stability during typing sessions.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and the desired amount of force required to trigger keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Crystal Violet offers a more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Lightning switch has a shallower travel distance of 3.0 mm, which is a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, perfect for gaming enthusiasts seeking a more responsive experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Lightning switch with its 3 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper keystroke and a more substantial feeling when typing, the Crystal Violet switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be the better option. Both switches offer distinct experiences, catering to different preferences and needs of users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is best known for its light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. This switch offers a gentle and comfortable feel. In terms of sound, the Crystal Violet switches have a pleasantly mellow sound profile, leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum. This creates a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience, thanks in part to the rare use of ABS in the switch housings. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for being a "speed" switch, perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine success or failure. When typing on the Lightning switches, users experience a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile.
Comparing the sound qualities, the Crystal Violet switches have a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a pleasant auditory experience that is not overpowering and leans towards a relaxed atmosphere. In contrast, the Lightning switches have a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Lightning switches are high-pitched, delivering a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound profile, the Crystal Violet switches may better suit your preferences. However, if you enjoy a sharper and brighter sound, the Lightning switches would be a great choice.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crystal Violet switches offer a creamy and mild typing experience. Creamy switches provide a smooth and buttery feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with each keystroke. These switches offer a gentle typing experience, making them approachable for most users. Furthermore, the Crystal Violet switches are described as stepped, meaning they feel more mild in comparison to switches with a more pronounced tactile bump. On the other hand, the Lightning switches provide a subtle and polished typing experience. The typing feel of the Lightning switches is gentle and not feather-like, allowing for comfortable typing. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and KTT Lightning linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Crystal Violet switches provide a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience, with a mellow and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are designed for speed and offer a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the switches that align with your desired sound and feel. If you are looking for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a creamy and stepped feel, the Crystal Violet switches would be a great option. However, if you prefer a sharper and brighter sound with a subtle and polished feel, the Lightning switches would suit your needs. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a comfortable feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a medium-light touch that many find enjoyable. The Crystal Violet switch also has a pleasantly mellow and low-pitched sound profile, thanks to the use of ABS in its housing. This creates a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switch is described as creamy, mild, and stepped, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with a gentle and approachable feel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and the potential milliseconds that can make a difference, the KTT Lightning linear switch might be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a light touch that allows for faster typing and gaming performance. The Lightning switch is known for its slick type feel and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. Furthermore, the Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, offering a gentle resistance and a smooth, refined typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch depends on your priorities and preferences. If you value a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile, the Crystal Violet switch is a great fit. However, if speed and a clacky sound are more important to you, the Lightning switch is a better option. Consider your typing style, gaming needs, and desired auditory experience when making your decision.
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