TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, there are clear differences to consider. The kiwi switches are praised for their medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances typing experience. Additionally, these switches offer a snappy sound profile and come lightly factory lubed for a smooth typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switches do not have a specific standout feature, being categorized as standard. When deciding between these two switches, you may lean towards the Kiwi for its tactile feedback and immersive typing experience, while the Spring Breeze may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and Outemu Spring Breeze both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Kiwi utilizing UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housings, while the Spring Breeze uses nylon for both. The UHWMPE in the Kiwi switch provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks during typing, whereas the nylon in the Spring Breeze offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to enhance the auditory experience during typing, with the Kiwi focusing on bright, resonant sounds and the Spring Breeze on deep and full tones.
In terms of the top housing, the UHWMPE in the Kiwi switch will produce bright, resonant sounds when keys are released, while the nylon in the Spring Breeze will create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing of the Kiwi switch, also made of UHWMPE, is responsible for impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, delivering a bright and resonant experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in the Spring Breeze contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a different tactile feedback during typing. Despite these differences, both switches emphasize the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and Outemu Spring Breeze will depend on personal preference for sound profile and tactile feedback. The UHWMPE housing in the Kiwi switch offers a bright and resonant typing experience, while the nylon housing in the Spring Breeze provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches aim to enhance the auditory feedback during typing, with the top and bottom housing materials playing a crucial role in determining the overall sound signature and feel of the switch. Whether you prefer the bright clacks of the UHWMPE in the Kiwi or the deep tones of the nylon in the Spring Breeze, both switches offer a unique and immersive typing experience.
Weight
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Kiwi requires 67 grams while the Spring Breeze needs 55 grams. This makes the Kiwi switch overall heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch is lighter in both categories, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where lighter keypresses are preferred. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences. In conclusion, if you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a heavier and more substantial feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch would be the ideal option.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it is clear that they both provide a consistent distance for users to press down on and feel when typing. This means that whether you choose the Kiwi or the Spring Breeze, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance, ensuring that users will have a comfortable typing experience regardless of which one they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Spring Breeze 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
In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force that suits a variety of typing preferences. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is not available, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can vary depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a two-stage tactile feel that is medium in intensity and smooth due to factory lubing. This provides a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there is no information available regarding its tactile feel.
Overall, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch stands out for its immersive typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and medium-strong tactile bump. The combination of low-pitched sound and stepped, accented feel makes it a popular choice for those looking for a tactile switch with a smooth and polished typing experience. While information on the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is limited, it's important to consider personal preferences and factors such as sound and feel when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switch would be a great choice. The Kiwi switch also offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a stepped, accented, and polished feel for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clicky switch, the Spring Breeze may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for.
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