KTT Kang White vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, look no further than the KTT Kang White and the KTT Lightning. The Kang White is a linear switch that truly stands out with its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Kang White offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning is also a linear switch but is renowned as a "speed" switch, perfect for those crucial milliseconds that can determine victory or defeat. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, the Lightning is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished. These general pointers provide a glimpse into the two switches, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the KTT Lightning, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing illumination. With the same polycarbonate top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from both the Kang White and the Lightning.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kang White utilizes nylon, while the Lightning also incorporates nylon as a classic switch housing material. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer and sound-absorbing properties. When typing on nylon-bottomed switches, users can expect a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound experience and feel of pressing down on the switches, with the Kang White potentially providing a deeper sound and softer impact compared to the Lightning.
In terms of the impact on the sound when releasing a key, the top housing material plays a more significant role. Both the Kang White and the Lightning feature a polycarbonate top housing, so users can anticipate a similar sound outcome when letting go of keys on either switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound profile, delivering a satisfying auditory experience. Therefore, while the bottom housing material may differ, the top housing similarities ensure that both the Kang White and the Lightning offer similar results in terms of the sound when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kang White has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lightning's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Kang White is also higher at 58 grams, whereas the Lightning has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
Considering weight, the Kang White switch is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force, which might be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions.
Overall, while the Kang White and Lightning switches have their distinguishing factors in terms of force requirements, they both offer a relatively medium to light experience. Thus, if you are looking for similar results, either of these switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, depending on your personal preference for either a slightly heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Kang White's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3.0 mm travel distance is shallower, making it a popular choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences. If you prefer a more responsive and quick typing experience, the Lightning switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Kang White switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41.
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 Kang White linear switch is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, resulting in a dazzling typing sound. This switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also features a self-lubricating material, providing an unparalleled smoothness when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known as a "speed" switch, perfect for situations where milliseconds can determine victory or defeat. When typing on the Lightning switch, users will experience a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile. The Lightning switch produces a high-pitched and crisp sound, with a touch of chirpiness.
Comparing the two switches, the Kang White offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Lightning switch provides a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile. In terms of feel, there is no specific information available about the Kang White switch. However, the Lightning switch is described as having a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel. Additionally, the Lightning switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, along with unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky, high-pitched, and slightly chirpy sound profile, along with a subtle resistance and polished finish for a smooth typing experience, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches have their unique qualities, and depending on personal preference and typing requirements, they can deliver similar results in terms of providing a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Kang White linear switch or the KTT Lightning linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and moderate actuation force, the Kang White can be suitable for various settings and skill levels.
On the other hand, if speed is of utmost importance to you and milliseconds can make a difference in your performance, the Lightning switch is worth considering. The Lightning switches are designed to provide a slick typing experience and offer a clacky sound profile. These switches are perfect for situations where quick response times are crucial and require a light bottom out force.
To sum up, when making a decision between the KTT Kang White and KTT Lightning linear switches, assess whether you prioritize a poppy linear switch with a smooth and dazzling typing sound or a speed switch that provides a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile. Consider both the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns best with your preferences and requirements.
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