KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Milk Blue. The Lightning is a linear switch, renowned for its speed and responsiveness, making it an ideal choice for gamers who rely on quick key presses to gain a competitive edge. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. While the Lightning offers a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Milk Blue provides a more pronounced click sound and tactile bump. 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
Both the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Milk Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the passage of light. However, despite having the same top housing material, the KTT Lightning switches have nylon bottom housings that give a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Outemu Milk Blue switches also have nylon bottom housings that absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrasting bottom housing material affects the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Due to the top housing material being the same for both the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Milk Blue switches, their sound profiles will be similar when it comes to key presses and releases. The sharp, higher-pitched sound created by the polycarbonate top housing will be consistent across both switches. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The KTT Lightning's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the Outemu Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing will absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound output of these switches.
The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Milk Blue switches means that the feel and sound of typing on these switches will vary depending on the specific material used. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of typing, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. Ultimately, users can choose between the sharper, crisper sound of the KTT Lightning switches with their nylon bottom housing or the duller, rounder sound of the Outemu Milk Blue switches with their nylon bottom housing for their preferred typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we see that the Lightning switch is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams but the bottom out force is unknown. The Lightning switch provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, potentially providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. While the actuation force differs between the two switches, the bottom out force being unknown for the Milk Blue switch means that it is unclear how it compares in terms of overall force required for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning switch offers a shorter travel distance than the Milk Blue switch, making it ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing experience, especially gamers who prefer faster response times. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback. Overall, while the Lightning switch is shorter and the Milk Blue switch is longer, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different 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 Milk 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, leaving its sound profile somewhat of a mystery. When it comes to feel, the Lightning switch is known for its subtle and polished typing experience, providing a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, no information is available regarding the feel of the Milk Blue switch. Overall, if you value a switch with a clacky sound and polished feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a solid choice. However, if you prefer a clicky switch with an unknown sound and feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch may still be worth considering for a different typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences and use case scenarios. If you prioritize speed and precision in your typing or gaming, the Lightning switch with its light actuation force and clacky sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Milk Blue switch could be a better fit with its clicky feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and the specific tasks you'll be using the keyboard for. Choose wisely based on your individual needs and enjoy the satisfying typing experience these switches have to offer.
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