KTT Laurel vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Laurel switch is praised for its medium-light feel, short travel, and long pole design, providing a unique balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, its full POM housing ensures durability while offering a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its audible click sound and tactile feedback, providing an entirely different typing experience. If you prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience, the Laurel switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you enjoy the satisfaction of a clicky switch with tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue switch could be the better option. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision on which one suits your preferences best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Blue, we see that the Laurel utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Blue switches use polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in materials leads to distinct sound profiles for the two switches, with the Laurel offering a more subdued sound compared to the crisper and fuller sound of the Blue.
Despite the difference in housing materials between the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Blue, both switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing sound experience for users. The use of POM in the Laurel and polycarbonate in the Blue top housing both contribute to creating a distinct sound profile. However, the inclusion of nylon in the Blue's bottom housing adds a different dimension to the sound experience, offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the more muted sound of the Laurel. Overall, while both switches focus on providing an enjoyable sound profile, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note how the top and bottom housings contribute to the typing experience. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, such as in the case of the Laurel and the Blue, each material brings its own unique qualities to the table. The bottom housing, whether it be POM or nylon, will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing, whether polycarbonate or POM, will influence the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how these housing materials interact with one another can help users make informed decisions when choosing a switch that best suits their preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Laurel is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Blue is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams, though the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches can have a significant impact on typing experience. Lighter switches like the Laurel are favored by those who prefer a smooth and effortless typing feel, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Blue switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch is 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a different tactile feel due to their varying travel distances. The Laurel may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Blue switch's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and Blue switches comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience the user is looking for in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. The difference in sound between the two switches can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the Laurel providing a more calming auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its snappy responsiveness, which is often attributed to its longer pole design and full POM housing. This feature makes typing with the Laurel switch feel more lively and engaging. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is unspecified. The tactile sensation of a switch is crucial to the typing experience, as it can greatly affect typing speed and accuracy.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and snappy feel, offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks specific information on these qualities. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. If the user prefers a smooth and responsive typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be the ideal choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, you would want to choose the KTT Laurel linear switch if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a smooth typing experience and a subtle low-pitched sound profile. The Laurel's 50-gram bottom out force provides a comfortable typing feel, and its snappy response makes typing feel more alive. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a more tactile and audible typing experience, you may want to choose the Outemu Blue switch. While the Blue switch's bottom out force is unavailable, it offers a satisfying click sound with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between the Laurel and Blue switch will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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