KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Gold offer unique experiences catering to different needs. The KTT Lightnings are linear switches known for their "speed" characteristics, making them a popular choice for gamers seeking quick response times. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switches are clicky switches that provide a tactile feedback and audible click with each press. While the Lightning switches offer a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Gold switches offer a satisfying click sound. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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 Gold switches share some similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates 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 to showcase RGB lighting. However, the differences in their bottom housings set them apart. The Lightning utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gold also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound depth and fullness.
While the top housings of the Lightning and Gold switches both provide a sharp and crisp sound profile, the bottom housings of these switches diverge in terms of sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches delivers a deeper and fuller sound experience, thanks to the material's softness that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the cleaner sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. The split between the top and bottom housings allows each material to contribute its unique qualities to different aspects of the typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the KTT Lightning and Outemu Gold switches offers a balanced sound profile that caters to different preferences. The utilization of polycarbonate for the top housing ensures a sharp and resonant sound, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects in a visually appealing manner. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether it's the unique sound characteristics or the aesthetic preferences, both switches offer a combination of materials that cater to different typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the Lightning is the lighter option. The Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch for a more robust typing experience. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference of individuals.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold switch with its longer travel distance may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Lightning switch being ideal for those looking for a shallower press, while the Gold switch provides a deeper keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Gold 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 characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that can be described as percussive and bright. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
As for feel, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle and polished typing experience, with a gentle resistance that still maintains a light feel. The smooth and refined finish of the Lightning switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there are no specific feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Gold clicky switch.
Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch appears to have a more defined sound and feel profile compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which lacks specific descriptors in both categories. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a subtle and polished typing feel, the Lightning switch may be a suitable choice for you. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a fast and responsive switch ideal for gaming or situations where quick key presses are crucial, 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 enjoy a medium bottom out force and prefer a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Gold switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style, gaming preferences, and desired sound and feel. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to see which one suits you best.
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