KTT Lightning vs. Everglide Oreo

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning, a linear switch, and the Everglide Oreo, a tactile switch. The Lightning switches are well-known for their speed, making them ideal for situations where split-second decisions can make a difference between winning or losing. Typing on them provides a smooth, slick feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Oreo switches offer a different experience with a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. They strike a perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience. The sound profile of the Oreos is subtle and mellow. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.

By the numbers

KTT Lightning Linear

Everglide Oreo Tactile

$3.41 per 10

$6.86

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the KTT Lightning and the Everglide Oreo keyboards share many similarities. Both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their keyboards. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when comparing the top housings of these two keyboards.

However, the materials diverge when it comes to the bottom housing. The Lightning incorporates a nylon bottom housing while the Oreo utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Oreo contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its polycarbonate top housing. Thus, users will experience different sound characteristics depending on the keyboard they choose.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the bottom and top of the keyboard switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the KTT Lightning and the Everglide Oreo may share some similarities in their housing materials, the different combinations of top and bottom housings result in variations in sound and overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are differences to consider. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Oreo switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Lightning switch has a force of 50 grams, while the Oreo switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch offers a lower actuation force, allowing for quicker keystrokes and potentially longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Oreo switch provides a slightly stronger push feel with its higher actuation force, delivering a more substantial typing experience.

In terms of bottoming out, both switches require a moderate amount of force. However, the Oreo switch proves to be slightly heavier in this aspect with its 55-gram bottom out force compared to the Lightning switch's 50-gram bottom out force. This means that the Oreo switch may provide a bit more resistance when pressing all the way down, which can be preferred by those seeking a tactile feedback or a more substantial feel when typing.

Overall, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Lightning and Oreo switches differ slightly, they both offer a relatively light and comfortable typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, one may opt for the Lightning switch for its lighter actuation force and slightly lighter bottom out force, or choose the Oreo switch for a slightly stronger push feel and a touch more resistance when bottoming out. Regardless of the choice, both switches can provide satisfying results for various typing or gaming needs.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the travel distance of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is 4 mm. Based on this information, the Oreo has a longer travel distance compared to the Lightning. A 4.0 mm travel distance is the more traditional option, providing a deeper and more satisfying key press. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3.0 mm travel distance is shallower, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - if you value a more responsive feel, the Lightning with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press, the Oreo with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Either way, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, giving users the option to customize their typing or gaming experience accordingly.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its clacky sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switch is also described as chirpy, which means it has a slight squeak to its sound. While both switches have unique acoustic signatures, the Lightning switch produces a sound that is described as clacky, while the Oreo switch has a more subtle, mellow sound profile.

In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is considered to have a subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel without being overly feather-light. The switch is also described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo switch is labeled as accented, which means it provides a medium level of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still prominent. The Oreo switch is also described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches offer their own unique feel, with the Lightning switch offering a subtle and polished typing experience, while the Oreo switch provides a medium level of tactility with a stepped feel.

In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have distinct differences in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch offers a clacky sound profile with a slick type feel, while the Oreo switch has a mellow sound profile with a crisp and responsive tactile bump. The Lightning switch is described as subtle and polished, while the Oreo switch is labeled as accented and stepped. Both switches provide their own unique typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lightning switch is perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. Typing on the Lightning switch provides a slick feel and a clacky sound profile, giving you a satisfying and precise typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a delightful tactile bump and a comfortable typing experience, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch would be the ideal option for you. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, the Oreo switch offers a medium-light tactility that strikes a perfect balance between satisfaction and comfort. Typing on the Oreo switch provides a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo switch also produces a subtle and mellow sound profile, creating a serene and enjoyable typing experience.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If speed and precision are your priority, the Lightning switch is the way to go. However, if you value tactile feedback and comfort, the Oreo switch is the perfect fit. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best aligns with your needs and typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Oreo Tactile

$6.86

$4.19 per 10

Learn more