KTT Kang White vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we see two distinct offerings in the mechanical keyboard world. The Kang White stands out for its poppy linear feel and smooth typing experience thanks to its self-lubricating material, making it a great choice for those looking for a low-pitched and neutral typing sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown doesn't have any standout features listed but falls into the tactile category, offering a different typing experience altogether. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Both the KTT Kang White and Outemu Crystal Brown switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This transparency allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent sound characteristics when typing on either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Kang White and Crystal Brown switches feature nylon material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having different top housings, the similarities in the bottom housing material of these switches indicate that users can anticipate a similar typing experience with regards to sound profile and feel.
The division of housing materials in the Kang White and Crystal Brown switches offers a unique typing experience. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the polycarbonate top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This distribution of materials allows for a well-balanced typing experience, with each component playing a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the keyboard. Whether it be the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper sound profile of nylon, users can expect a harmonious blend of characteristics from these distinct housing materials.
Weight
Both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kang White has a heavier force of 58 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's lighter 55 grams. This means that the Kang White provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Crystal Brown offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, but the Kang White is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing users with different options based on their preferences for typing feel and typing duration.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they both offer the same amount of key travel for users. This means that whether you choose the KTT Kang White or the Outemu Crystal Brown, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of key press depth. Ultimately, both switches provide a standard 4 mm travel distance, resulting in familiar typing experiences for users across both options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10.
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 KTT Kang White linear switch stands out with its low-pitched and neutral characteristics, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptions available at this time, making it difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound quality. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
As for the typing feel, details on the Kang White and Crystal Brown switches are not provided, making it challenging to compare the tactile feedback and overall typing experience offered by each switch. However, based on general knowledge of linear and tactile switches, the Kang White linear switch is likely to offer a smooth typing experience due to its self-lubricating material, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch may provide a satisfying tactile bump during key actuation.
In conclusion, while the KTT Kang White linear switch is revered for its smooth typing experience and low-pitched sound profile, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks specific details to directly compare in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Kang White linear switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is important to take into account your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and prefer a medium bottom out force, the Kang White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and are indifferent to sound preferences, the Crystal Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and what features are most important to you.
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