KTT Lightning vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Lightning and the KTT Pine, two mechanical keyboard switches that provide unique experiences for users seeking the perfect switch. The Lightning switches are renowned for their approachability and speed, making them ideal for situations where split-second decisions can determine victory or defeat. With a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switches boast a translucent, forest green design and are built for effortless typing. With a medium-heavy weight, these switches provide a buttery smooth feel and minimize friction for seamless key travel. Categorized as bassy, buttery, and creamy, they offer a low-pitched sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is truly the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and KTT Pine differ in their housing materials. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Pine also has a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will provide a similar sound profile, characterized by a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lightning utilizes a nylon material, while the Pine sticks with polycarbonate. This difference in material affects the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. Typing on the Lightning, with its nylon bottom housing, will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile.
When using these switches, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials will become evident. Pressing down on the switch will primarily highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Lightning will offer a more cushioned and muted bottom-out experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine will provide a more firm and snappy bottom-out sensation. Meanwhile, when releasing a key, the sound will be influenced more by the characteristics of the top housing, resulting in a distinct sound profile for each switch.
In summary, both the KTT Lightning and KTT Pine exhibit similarities and differences in their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches ensures a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Lightning brings a deeper and fuller sound, offering a cushioned bottom-out experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine provides a firmer and snappier bottom-out feel. The combination of these housing materials in each switch creates unique sound profiles, tailored to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, which means it requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Pine switch with its actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Lightning switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Pine switch which has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that typing on the Lightning switch will feel smoother and require less force, resulting in a lighter typing experience. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Pine switch with its slightly heavier forces. Both switches provide a different tactile experience, with the Lightning switch offering a lighter touch and the Pine switch providing a slightly heavier, yet still comfortable, typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Pine has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance compared to the Pine. 4.0mm is the more traditional travel distance, providing a sense of depth when typing, whereas 3.0mm is shallower, resulting in a more responsive feel. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and nimble keystrokes, the Lightning switch would be the better option for you. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Pine switch with its longer travel distance might be a more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
The KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy sound profile. It produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences, with the Lightning being clacky and the Pine offering a bassier tone.
In terms of feel, the Lightning switch is subtle and polished. It has a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The Lightning switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Pine switch is buttery and creamy. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The Pine switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, thanks to factory lubing and specific materials.
Considering all the available information, the Lightning and Pine switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch has a clacky sound profile and a subtle, polished feel. It is a great choice for those who prioritize quick response times and a slick typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch has a bassy sound profile and a buttery, creamy feel. It is ideal for users seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer the sound of the Lightning switch but desire the feel of the Pine switch, you can achieve similar results by combining the Lightning switch with lubrication to enhance its smoothness.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch is a great choice for you. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches are perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning and losing. Not only do the Lightning switches offer a slick typing feel, but they also produce a clacky sound profile, adding to the satisfying typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 58 grams, these medium-heavy switches are built for comfort. The polished and factory-lubed finish of the Pine switches minimizes friction, resulting in smooth key travel. Additionally, the Pine switches offer a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tonal experience during key presses.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning and Pine switches depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value speed and a clacky sound, go for the Lightning. If you prioritize a smooth and buttery typing experience with a bassy sound profile, the Pine is the better option. Both switches offer high-quality performance and are sure to enhance your overall typing experience.
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