KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Dustproof Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, both the KTT Lightning and Outemu Dustproof Black offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and gaming styles. The KTT Lightning switches are renowned for their responsiveness, making them a top pick for competitive gamers who need to make split-second decisions. Their slick typing feel and distinctive clacky sound profile add an engaging auditory element to the typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a tactile and audible response. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black switches, while lacking a specific defining feature, present themselves as reliable linear switches. They can be an excellent choice for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without the distraction of extra noise. While both switches cater to linear preferences and offer distinct experiences, the KTT Lightning excels in performance-focused scenarios, while the Outemu Dustproof Black serves as a dependable option for a quieter typing environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Lightning Linear

Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.41 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Lightning and the Outemu Dustproof Black share a significant similarity in their top housing, both utilizing polycarbonate as the primary material. This commonality contributes to an enhanced auditory experience, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate facilitates a clear and resonant sound, making it particularly effective in scenarios involving RGB lighting, as its translucency showcases the illumination beautifully. When examining these two switches, users can expect them to deliver a similar auditory resonance when engaged, highlighting the efficacy of polycarbonate in elevating the overall aesthetic and functional performance of the switches.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Lightning and Dustproof Black deviate by employing nylon as their material of choice, yet the descriptions of the nylon’s impact remain consistent across both switches. The nylon bottom housing is revered for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition. This inherent characteristic permits the nylon to absorb sound more adeptly than its stiffer counterparts, resulting in a rounder and more muted audio experience when the key is bottomed out. Users can expect a similar auditory outcome when typing on either switch, as the nylon's qualities govern the tactile feedback and bottom-out acoustics, enriching the overall user experience.

When considering the combined effects of the different housing materials in the KTT Lightning and Outemu Dustproof Black, it becomes evident that each switch presents a unique auditory and tactile profile. The top housing, made of polycarbonate, ensures a consistent higher pitch and clarity, while the bottom housing, constructed of nylon, embraces a deeper sound resonance typically associated with its softer texture. This synergy between the two materials means that the qualities from both top and bottom housings can expect to create a cohesive typing experience, combining the sharper sound of the upper housing with the fuller tone of the lower housing. Therefore, despite their differences, both switches are likely to provide a well-rounded auditory experience that caters to a variety of user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT Lightning has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a typing experience that allows for longer sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. As a result, the Lightning switch is ideal for extended use, while the Black switch may be better for individuals who appreciate the tactile feedback of a stronger push. Thus, if you're looking for a lightweight and responsive option, the KTT Lightning would be the better choice, while the Outemu Dustproof Black caters to a preference for a firmer feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is clear that the two have distinct characteristics. The KTT Lightning features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a more shallow option that could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times and faster key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional travel distance that some users might prefer for a more substantial and hearty feel. Therefore, the Lightning switch offers a shorter travel distance, suitable for those who favor rapid inputs, while the Dustproof Black provides a longer travel distance, appealing to users who enjoy a deeper key press experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the KTT Lightning linear switch is characterized by a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy quality. This sharp and snappy auditory feedback provides a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed, making it an engaging choice for users who appreciate a more lively acoustic environment while typing. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Black does not come with any specific sound descriptors available, leaving uncertainty about its audio characteristics. However, it’s worth noting that the sound can be influenced by other factors like the keyboard plate material and the keycap selection, which may play a role in the overall typing experience.

In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch provides a uniquely polished and subtle experience. Its gentle resistance ensures a light typing feel, while the smoothness of the switch contributes to reduced friction during key presses, facilitating a refined and sleek typing experience. The subtlety and polished nature of the Lightning make it suitable even for shared spaces, as it doesn't produce a resonant sound signature. On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. This absence of information means that it is challenging to compare it directly against the Lightning switch in terms of typing sensations.

Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch stands out in both sound and feel, offering a clacky auditory profile and a smooth, responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black lacks detailed descriptions for both sound and feel, leaving potential users with little information to gauge its performance. If sound and feel are significant factors for you, opting for the KTT Lightning would provide a more defined and enjoyable experience, while the Outemu Dustproof Black remains an unknown quantity in these areas.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you find yourself engaged in fast-paced gaming or need a switch that can provide rapid actuation to enhance your performance, the KTT Lightning is the ideal choice. With its light bottom-out force of 50 grams, it offers a slick and polished typing feel, making it easy to execute quick inputs without exhausting your fingers. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds a delightful audial feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile experience with resistance that encourages deliberate key presses, the Dustproof Black may be more to your liking, thanks to its heavier bottom-out force of 80 grams. While it lacks specific sound or feel descriptors, you’ll appreciate the durability and dustproof qualities of this switch if you often deal with an environment prone to debris. Essentially, go for the KTT Lightning when you prioritize speed and lightness, while the Outemu Dustproof Black is suitable if you value heft and reliability in your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

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Outemu Dustproof Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more