Outemu Crystal vs. TKC Kiwi

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Outemu Crystal and the TKC Kiwi. The Crystal is best known for its unique linear typing experience, offering a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typing on the Crystals produces a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches are designed to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, giving it a tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying. These switches also have a snappy sound profile that adds to the immersive typing experience. Furthermore, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the TKC Kiwi switches exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent quality of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Similarly, the UHWMPE material used in the Kiwi's top housing offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks during typing. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound when pressing and releasing keys with both switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Crystal utilizes polycarbonate while the Kiwi incorporates UHWMPE. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic composition enhances the clarity and resonance of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the newer material UHWMPE in the Kiwi's bottom housing contributes to an overall bright sound signature and potentially different characteristics when typing on the switches. This distinction suggests that the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.

The contrast between the top and bottom housing materials is important to consider as it directly impacts the typing experience. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Crystal's bottom housing made of polycarbonate accentuates the resonance and clarity when keys are pressed down. In contrast, the UHWMPE material used in the Kiwi's bottom housing may introduce its own unique characteristics during typing. Conversely, the sound when releasing keys is primarily influenced by the top housing, and both switches use polycarbonate in that regard, resulting in similar effects when keys are released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly lighter than the Kiwi's 43 grams. However, the Crystal requires a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Kiwi has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal switch would be a suitable choice, as its actuation force is slightly lighter than the Kiwi. This can be beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods of time, such as during work or long gaming sessions.

On the other hand, if a more substantial and satisfying typing experience is desired, the Kiwi switch would be the preferred option. Its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, making each keystroke feel more substantial.

It's worth noting that while the forces differ between the two switches, they both fall within the medium range overall. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Crystal being slightly lighter and the Kiwi being slightly heavier.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures a consistent tactile experience while typing. Therefore, whether you choose the Outemu Crystal or the TKC Kiwi, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal switches have a unique and distinctive acoustic signature. They are described as chirpy, which means they have a slight squeak to them, setting them apart from other switches. Additionally, they produce a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches have a low-pitched sound profile. They feature a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Kiwi switches are also described as having a neutral sound, which means they have a moderate sound profile and actuation force requirement, suitable for most purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal switches are described as polished. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished surface reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches have a stepped and accented feel. Stepped switches have two stages of tactile feedback, providing a more mild sensation compared to hypertactile switches. The Kiwi switches also offer a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Similar to the Crystal switches, the Kiwi switches are also described as polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Crystal switches offer a linear typing experience with a unique elastic feel and medium-light weight. They have a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, and a polished feel that ensures smooth key travel. Alternatively, the TKC Kiwi switches provide a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. They have a snappy and immersive sound profile, and a stepped and accented feel that offers a moderate amount of tactility. Both switches are described as polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Crystal switches offer a different typing experience compared to the Kiwi switches, both options provide satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences in their own ways.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and unique typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the right choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and provide a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is the way to go. These switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. Additionally, the Kiwi switch offers a choice between low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, allowing you to select the tone that suits your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Crystal and Kiwi switches comes down to your preferred typing experience, whether it be a more linear and medium-light feel or a tactile and snappy sensation.

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