KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer distinct experiences for users. The Lightning is a linear switch known for its speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge. With a slick type feel and clacky sound profile, it falls under categories such as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Chirpy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that prioritizes feedback and a satisfying typing experience. While it may not have a specific standout feature like the Lightning, it still delivers a pleasant typing experience. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and use case. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Crystal Brown, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for switches that are intended for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. Both switches also offer a similar aesthetic appeal with their clear housing, making it easy to spot switches that feature polycarbonate top housings.
However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Lightning utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Conversely, the Crystal Brown also features nylon for its bottom housing, meaning that both switches share the same qualities when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, despite any differences in the top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a switch can greatly impact the sound profile and feel of typing. While both the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Crystal Brown benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Lightning creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Brown. Regardless of these differences, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Lightning is lighter in both aspects. The Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a moderate typing experience, with the Lightning being slightly lighter overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may gravitate towards the Lightning, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning switch would be ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, as it offers a longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique advantages based on personal preferences, with the Lightning providing speed and the Crystal Brown offering a more pronounced keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Crystal Brown 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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to directly compare. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished typing experience. This suggests that it provides a gentle resistance without being overly light, while also offering a smooth and refined key travel. In contrast, there is no specific feel description available for the Crystal Brown switch, making it unclear how it directly compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky sound profile and a subtle, polished feel, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a fast and responsive typing experience with a distinct sound signature. While details on the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are limited, it is important to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches to ensure that you get the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that is fast and responsive, perfect for gaming where milliseconds matter, then the Lightning switch with its light bottom out force and clacky sound profile may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a versatile sound profile and a subtle typing feel, the Crystal Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and what kind of sound profile you prefer.
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