KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Lightning and Gateron Mars both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences and gaming needs. The KTT Lightning switches are celebrated for their speed and responsiveness, making them an excellent choice for gamers where every millisecond can be crucial. Their slick typing feel, complemented by a clacky sound profile, makes them not only efficient but also satisfying to use for both gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switches stand out due to their innovative design, featuring a POK stem combined with a blend of Nylon and POM for enhanced durability and performance. While the Mars switches may lack a distinct sound categorization, their design promises a smooth and reliable experience that appeals to users who prioritize longevity and consistency. Each switch has its advantages—whether you’re drawn to the rapid response of the KTT Lightning or the innovative build of the Gateron Mars. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Lightning and Gateron Mars switches, the differences in their housing materials provide a fascinating glimpse into how these choices affect both sound and typing experience. The KTT Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates nicely when typing. This stiffer plastic not only allows for a clearer auditory experience but is also translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic choice that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the Lightning's sharper output.
In terms of bottom housings, the differences between the two switches continue to illustrate their unique sound characteristics. The KTT Lightning employs a nylon bottom housing, renowned for similar qualities found in its top counterpart. This choice results in a deeper and more muted sound, enhancing the tactile and auditory feedback of each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing, which is also known for producing a unique sound profile that is deeper and comparatively muted. The impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch during typing is crucial, as it significantly affects the bottom-out experience while the top housing primarily influences the sound upon key release.
Ultimately, despite these contrasting materials, both switches can deliver satisfying results in their respective environments. If the top and bottom housings feature different materials, the consequent sound profiles will result in a unique synthesis of auditory experiences during use. The KTT Lightning's combination of polycarbonate and nylon yields a crisper and more resonant sound when releasing keys, while the Gateron Mars's nylon and POM pairing emphasizes a fuller sound that is more muted during both the press and release. This can lead to similar tactile sensations when typed on, although the auditory feedback will be reflective of the specific materials used. With careful consideration of switches' housing compositions, enthusiasts can achieve customized sound profiles and typing experiences tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch present a notable contrast in actuation force, with the Lightning requiring 43 grams while the Mars requires a slightly heavier 45 grams. This difference means that the Lightning switch might be preferable for users seeking a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron Mars is unspecified, which limits our ability to fully assess its performance in this regard. The Lightning switch’s bottom out force is 50 grams, indicating that it offers a lighter overall feel compared to the Mars, especially during key presses. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the Mars could still appeal due to its higher actuation force, though its bottom out characteristics remain unknown. Overall, typing on the KTT Lightning will likely result in less fatigue over prolonged use, while the Gateron Mars may cater better to those who prefer a firmer push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, it’s evident that the two have distinct characteristics suited to different preferences. The KTT Lightning features a travel distance of 3 mm, which is on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for users who favor quick responsiveness, such as gamers. In contrast, the Gateron Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, providing a more substantial feel and is likely to appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more tactile experience when pressing the keys. Therefore, while the Lightning offers quicker actuation and may feel less abrupt, the Mars grants users a more traditional and hearty typing experience. Essentially, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference for either shorter or longer travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Lightning linear switch offers a distinctive clacky profile characterized by a sharp, bright, and percussive sound. This high-pitched nature can add a lively atmosphere to your typing experience. The chirpy undertone also adds a unique auditory aspect, providing a little squeak that sets it apart from many other switches. In contrast, there isn’t specific information available about the sound profile of the Gateron Mars switches, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in this regard. However, since the sound of a switch is influenced by factors like your choice of keyboard, it might be possible to experience different sound signatures depending on the setup you choose with the Mars switches.
In terms of feel, the Lightning switches are known for a slick typing experience that balances subtle resistance with smooth key travel. The polished finish allows for reduced friction, resulting in a refined and comfortable typing feel. This can make the Lightning switches particularly appealing for those who type for extended periods. Unfortunately, there is no detailed description of the feel of the Gateron Mars switches, which leaves a gap in understanding how they may differ from or align with the Lightning in tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch is a strong choice for those who appreciate a clacky sound and a polished feel with responsive feedback, making them ideal for high-speed typing. While the Gateron Mars switch's sound profile remains an unknown, its innovative design offers potential benefits in performance. Without comparable tactile information for the Mars, it’s challenging to make definitive assessments, but personal experimentation can lead to similar typist satisfaction if one finds a suitable setup. Remember that the ultimate experience will always hinge on how each switch interacts with your keyboard's layout and the keycaps you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize speed and a tactile response that can enhance your gaming experience, the KTT Lightning is your best bet. With its light 50-gram actuation force, it allows for rapid key presses that can be crucial in fast-paced scenarios while providing a clacky, high-pitched sound that adds auditory feedback to your actions. Its polished and subtle feel ensures a smooth typing experience that is particularly satisfying during competitive gaming or typing sessions that require quick reflexes. On the other hand, if you are looking for innovative design and are indifferent to the switch's acoustic characteristics, the Gateron Mars could be an intriguing option. Although specific details about its feel and sound are less defined, the Mars’s unique construction from Nylon and POM suggests it could offer a distinct experience that may appeal to users wanting something different in terms of aesthetics and performance. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your needs—whether you seek speed and feedback with the Lightning or unique innovation with the Mars.
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