KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note some key differences. The KTT Lightning is a linear switch that is renowned for its speed and precision, making it the ideal choice for gamers who rely on quick reflexes to gain an edge. Its clacky sound profile and slick typing feel offer a unique experience for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean is also a linear switch, but it features a silent operation, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Lightning is known for its high-pitched and chirpy sound, the Dustproof Silent Ocean remains noiseless. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite these similarities, the Lightning and the Dustproof Silent Ocean switches have differences in their housing materials. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound when releasing a key, whereas the Silent Ocean also utilizes polycarbonate but emphasizes a crisper sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches adds to the depth of the sound when typing, with the Lightning emphasizing a fuller sound and the Silent Ocean focusing on absorbing more sound for a rounder tone. These differences suggest that the switches may have unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches can greatly impact the sound profile and typing experience. Both the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches use a combination of polycarbonate and nylon to achieve different sound characteristics. While they both utilize polycarbonate for a sharper sound, the Lightning emphasizes a crisper sound with its top housing, while the Silent Ocean focuses on a rounder tone. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a fuller sound when typing, making them versatile options for different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning switch is lighter in both aspects. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lightning switch make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for extended periods of comfortable typing. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for added precision and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Lightning switch being lighter and the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch being medium-heavy in comparison.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The Lightning switch would provide a slightly quicker feel due to its shorter travel distance, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may offer a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Moving on to the feel aspect, the Lightning switch is known for its subtle and polished typing experience, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch remains unspecified. In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that offers a quick response time and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with unknown sound characteristics and feel, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch may also provide similar results in terms of performance. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the specific needs of your typing or gaming experience. If you prioritize speed and a light typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the best option for you, especially in competitive gaming scenarios where milliseconds matter. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a smooth and refined typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
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