KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that emphasizes speed and precision, the KTT Lightning linear switch stands out as a popular choice. Known for its quick response time and perfect for gaming scenarios where split-second reactions are crucial, the Lightning switch offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch provides a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the linear feel. While the Lightning switch is characterized by its 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Chirpy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished' attributes, the Silent Green switch does not have any specific standout features but offers a silent typing experience. 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
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Silent Green, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material brings about sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Lightning differs in that it uses nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent Green sticks to polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, ensuring consistency in sound profile and aesthetics.
The utilization of nylon in the Lightning's bottom housing creates a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrasts with the Silent Green's choice of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, which emphasizes a sharper and clearer sound. While the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when letting go of a key, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play when bottoming out a key. This difference in housing materials between the two switches impacts the overall typing experience and sound feedback they provide to users.
Overall, while the Lightning and Silent Green share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, their differing choices for the bottom housing result in distinct sound profiles. The Lightning's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Silent Green's consistent use of polycarbonate ensures a more uniform sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 43 grams, compared to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch at 45 grams, making the Lightning the lighter of the two. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning requires 50 grams, while the Silent Green needs 60 grams, indicating that the Silent Green is the heavier switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the KTT Lightning for longer typing sessions and gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Outemu Silent Green for a stronger push experience. In this case, choosing the Lightning will result in a similar outcome in terms of force required, while the Silent Green offers a slightly heavier typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths, catering to different preferences based on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning switch would be ideal for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a deeper key press as the longer travel distance provides a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Lightning switch being shorter and quicker, while the Silent Green switch is longer and provides a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for travel distance when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Silent Green 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 switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, which adds a tactile element to typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. The lack of information suggests that the Silent Green switch may produce a quieter typing experience compared to the Lightning switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switch is characterized as having a subtle resistance that provides a light typing feel. This gentle resistance allows for comfortable typing without fatiguing the fingers. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there are no specific feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Silent Green switch. Based on the lack of information, we can assume that the Silent Green switch likely offers a comparable typing experience in terms of smoothness and comfort.
Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch is favored for its speed and tactile feedback, making it suitable for situations where quick and precise keystrokes are crucial. Its clacky sound profile adds an audible dimension to typing, while the subtle resistance and polished feel enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing smoothness and comfort. While specific details about the Silent Green switch's sound and feel are unknown, it is likely to provide a comparable typing experience to the Lightning switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, consider your priorities. If you prioritize speed and precision in gaming, the KTT 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 bottom out force and prioritize a subtle and polished typing feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch may suit your needs better. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and usage scenarios. Happy typing!
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