KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing and contrasting the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that they each have their own unique qualities. The KTT Lightnings are popular for their speed and precision, making them an ideal choice for gamers who rely on quick reactions. With a clacky sound profile and a slick typing feel, these switches are perfect for competitive gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is characterized by its silence, offering a quiet and smooth typing experience. While the Lightning switch is known for being loud, high-pitched, chirpy, subtle, and polished, the Silent Yellow switch has no specific categorizations. Each switch caters to different preferences and requirements, providing users with a variety of options to choose from. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
2.20 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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Silent Yellow, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the contrast comes with the bottom housings - the Lightning utilizes a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
In terms of material composition, the nylon bottom housing of both the KTT Lightning and Outemu Silent Yellow switches plays a significant role in creating a fuller and deeper sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This common feature in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a more muted and satisfying typing experience. However, the unique combination of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows for a nuanced sound profile that captures the best qualities of both materials.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Lightning and Outemu Silent Yellow switches differ, each type of material contributes unique characteristics to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The top housing material, in this case, being polycarbonate in both switches, influences the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced when keys are released. On the other hand, the bottom housing material, nylon, affects the depth and fullness of the sound when keys are pressed. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings showcases how the choice of materials can impact the overall feel and acoustics of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear 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 suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Silent Yellow switch would be more appealing to individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their variance in actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is 4 mm. In this case, the Lightning switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow switch. A shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Yellow 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 sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and percussive sound that is distinct and attention-grabbing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is safe to assume that it produces a quieter sound compared to the Lightning switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished typing experience. This means that the switch offers a gentle resistance with a light typing feel, as well as a smooth and refined finish for sleek key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have any specific feel descriptors provided, so it is unclear how it compares to the Lightning switch in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Lightning linear switch is best suited for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience, with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile coupled with a subtle and polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch may offer a quieter typing experience, but without specific descriptors for sound and feel, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a light, "speed" switch with a clacky sound profile that can give you that competitive edge in gaming or fast typing scenarios, the KTT Lightning would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a silent operation and are not concerned about speed, the Outemu Silent Yellow might be more suitable for you. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the decision that best fits your keyboard preferences and usage. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's essential to try them out firsthand if possible to see which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
