Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mint both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Crystal switches provide a fairly elastic typing experience with a medium-light weight, resulting in a distinct linear feel. Additionally, these switches produce a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Mint switches are praised for their satisfyingly smooth linear feel, thanks to their long pole stem, which gives a poppy thockiness sensation when typing. Furthermore, they offer a light and fleeting type feel. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into the differences between the two switches, it is important to delve deeper to determine which switch will best suit your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Mint share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. As a result, both the Crystal and Mint switches will provide similar sound profiles and visual effects when used with RGB lighting.
However, the differences arise when we examine the bottom housing materials. The Crystal switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Mint switch employs a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal contributes to the overall sound profile by enhancing the bottom-out sound and feel. The stiffness of polycarbonate ensures a clear and defined sensation when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Mint creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out the keys.
This divergence in bottom housing materials highlights the impact each housing has on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Crystal switch will provide a more pronounced and defined bottom-out sound due to the polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Mint switch will produce a deeper and fuller sound thanks to the nylon bottom housing. Additionally, the top housing material will be more influential in the sound when releasing a key. Regardless of this distinction, both switches will offer a satisfying typing experience, but with slight variations in sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, their actuation forces are the same, both requiring 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly. The Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Mint has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The slight difference in bottom out force may not have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, so users can expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences, with the Mint offering a slightly lighter bottom out force for those seeking a slightly lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent tactile experience and yield similar results when pressed down. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance one feels when pressing a key. Therefore, whether you choose the Crystal or the Mint, you can expect a comfortable and reliable typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a unique acoustic experience. It is described as having a chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches. Additionally, it has a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch has a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It is also described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch offers a polished typing experience. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Mint switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Like the Crystal switch, the Mint switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal and KTT Mint linear switches have their own unique qualities. The Crystal switch provides a linear typing experience with an elastic feel and medium-light weight. It also has a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth linear typing experience with a poppy thockiness. It has a light and fleeting feel and a low-pitched sound. Both switches have a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a great typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Outemu Crystal linear switch, you can expect a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a unique, linear typing experience with a fairly elastic feel. The sound profile of the Crystal switch can be described as chirpy and high-pitched, adding a distinct acoustic signature. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 53 grams, still falling into the medium-light range. This switch is best known for its satisfyingly smooth linear feel and a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. The sound profile of the Mint switch can be described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Mint switch is both mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal and KTT Mint linear switches, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a chirpy, high-pitched sound and a polished, sleek feel, the Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, neutral sound and a mild, polished feel that offers a gentle and approachable typing experience, the Mint switch might be more suited to your needs. Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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