KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue. The KTT Lightning is a linear switch known for its speed and precision, making it a great choice for gamers who rely on quick reactions. The slick typing feel and clacky sound profile provide a satisfying experience for those who prioritize performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that offers a tactile and audible feedback with each key press. While the Lightning is ideal for competitive gaming, the Blue switch is favored by typists who enjoy the satisfying click sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. In terms of sound, both the Lightning and the Blue switches will produce similar results with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when looking at the bottom housing material, the Lightning utilizes nylon while the Blue also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Its softer nature helps absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Lightning potentially offering a deeper sound profile than the Blue.
Overall, the choice of materials for the housing of a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Blue share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material, nylon for the Lightning and Blue, may lead to variations in the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller one, understanding the properties of housing materials can help you make an informed decision when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Lightning easier to trigger. However, the Lightning has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams whereas the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lightning for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Blue switch for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer a range of options for different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 3 mm distance of the Lightning switch offers a shallower and faster key press response, making it ideal for gamers seeking quicker reaction times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Blue switch provides a more traditional and deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance to suit individual typing or gaming styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile that is sharp, bright, and percussive. This can create a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks a specific sound description, so it may not offer the same level of clarity and distinction in terms of sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is greatly influenced by various factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Lightning switch is characterized by a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a light typing feel with smooth key travel. This can lead to a comfortable and refined typing experience, especially for those who prefer a lighter keypress. Conversely, the Outemu Blue switch does not have a specific feel description provided, making it difficult to compare directly. However, given the clicky nature of the switch, it may offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience compared to the linear Lightning switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch seems to excel in providing a clacky and polished typing experience with a subtle and light feel, making it a suitable choice for users looking for speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may offer a different tactile feedback and sound profile that caters to those who prefer a more traditional clicky typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Lightning switch with its light bottom out force of 50 grams is a great option for gaming or fast typing scenarios where milliseconds can make a difference. The Lightning switch also offers a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be more suitable, despite the lack of specific information provided. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience with the Lightning switch, or a more tactile and audible typing experience with the Blue switch. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and usage requirements.
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