KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mini i. The Lightning is a linear switch known for its speed and precision, making it a great choice for gamers or anyone looking for quick responsiveness. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactile bump with each keystroke, perfect for office environments where quiet typing is key. While the Lightning offers a clacky sound profile and polished feel, the Mini i strikes a balance with a subtle sound profile and comfortable typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mini i, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. However, the slight difference in sound may be due to the overall design and construction of the switches.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Lightning is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Mini i features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lightning. The two switches offer different sound profiles due to the unique properties of their housing materials.
Overall, both the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mini i offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound, the Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar impact on sound when typing. In the end, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch are both relatively light. The Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a slight difference in actuation force. The Lightning switch requires a slightly heavier touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Mini i, making it the heavier of the two, although the difference is minimal. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either of these switches would provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mini i has a longer travel distance compared to the Lightning. The shorter travel distance of the Lightning may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Mini i's longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each individual is looking for in their keyboard. Both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different needs and preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which provides a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes without being overly loud or distracting. This means that if you prefer a more audible and crisp typing sound, the Lightning switch would be the better choice, whereas the Mini i switch offers a more subdued and office-friendly sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch is characterized by its subtle and polished typing experience, providing a light yet refined feel with minimal friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation, making typing effortless and comfortable with a spring-like feedback. Both switches fall on different ends of the spectrum in terms of typing feel, with the Lightning switch offering a sleek and polished experience, while the Mini i switch provides a lively and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in both sound and feel. The Lightning switch is more geared towards those who prefer a sharper and clacky typing sound with a subtle and polished feel, perfect for competitive gaming or fast-paced typing. On the other hand, the Mini i switch caters to users looking for a more neutral and office-friendly sound with a bouncy and easy-to-press typing feel, ideal for extended typing sessions in a quiet environment. Depending on your preferences and intended use, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize speed and a clacky sound profile for gaming or quick typing tasks, the Lightning switch would be the ideal choice with its 50-gram bottom out force and sharp, high-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more office-friendly switch with gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile for comfortable and quiet typing experiences, the Gateron Mini i switch with its bouncy, easy-to-press feel might be more suitable. Consider the environment you'll be using the keyboard in and the type of typing experience you prefer when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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