KTT Lightning vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Lightning switches are well-known for their speed and responsiveness, making them ideal for situations where split-second decisions can determine victory or defeat. These switches offer a slick and clacky type feel, with a high-pitched and chirpy sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish Whites provide a pleasing level of resistance when pressed, offering a precise and comfortable typing experience. Despite their medium tactility, these switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them perfect for use in office or shared living spaces. Both switches have their unique strengths, 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
The KTT Lightning and TTC Silent Bluish White switches have similar housing materials, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material provides several benefits, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for those who want to incorporate lighting effects into their keyboard setup. In terms of sound, the stiffness of the polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound profile.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the KTT Lightning and TTC Silent Bluish White switches differs, with the Lightning utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Silent Bluish White featuring a similar nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a well-known and traditional material for switch housings, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
While both switches offer the advantages of using polycarbonate for their top housing, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that when typing on either switch, you will feel the impact and experience the sound qualities of the bottom housing. Meanwhile, when you release a key, the top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the resulting sound. Thus, while the materials used may be the same or similar, their placement within the switches affects the overall typing and auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, we can see that both switches have similar forces. The Lightning has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Silent Bluish White's 42 grams. However, their bottom out forces are the same at 50 grams. This means that both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, allowing users to type for longer periods without much strain.
For those who prefer a lighter feel, both the Lightning and Silent Bluish White switches would be suitable options. Their actuation forces are low enough to provide a smooth and effortless keystroke initiation. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfactory results with their bottom out force of 50 grams. In terms of weight, neither switch is explicitly mentioned to be lighter or heavier than the other, so it can be assumed that they have comparable weights. Overall, both the KTT Lightning linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer similar force profiles, allowing users to enjoy a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, we can see that the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Silent Bluish White has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these travel distances fall within the range of shorter distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the Lightning switch with its 3 mm travel distance may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a deeper and more pronounced key press, the Silent Bluish White switch with its longer 3.5 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired keyboard feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning switches offer a clacky profile with a crisp, bright, and sharp sound when pressed. This high-pitched sound is ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switches are designed to be as quiet as possible. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, thanks to their muted profile. This makes them perfect for use in environments such as offices or shared living spaces where noise reduction is desired. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switches provide a subtle resistance, offering a gentle typing experience without being too feather-light. The switch has a polished and refined finish, resulting in smooth and sleek key travel. This is achieved through either high-quality materials or factory lubing, reducing friction and creating a polished typing sensation. On the other hand, TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer a buttery and mild typing experience. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, these switches have a stepped feel, meaning they have two stages in their tactile response, making them feel more mild compared to switches with a pronounced tactile bump. The combination of these qualities results in a typing experience that is approachable and comfortable for most users, as it falls within a safe middle ground.
Taking all of the available information into account, the KTT Lightning and TTC Silent Bluish White switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switches provide a clacky sound profile with a high-pitched and sharp sound, while the Silent Bluish White switches offer a muted sound that is softer and quieter. In terms of feel, the Lightning switches offer a subtle and polished typing experience, while the Silent Bluish White switches provide a buttery and mild keystroke with a stepped feel. Evaluating your personal preferences and the specific environment in which you will be using the keyboard, you can select the switch that best suits your needs. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a subtle and polished typing experience, the KTT Lightning switches would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a quieter and more muted sound with a buttery and mild typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White switches would be the ideal option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness, then the KTT Lightning linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With its light bottom out force and slick type feel, these switches are designed for those moments where milliseconds matter. Additionally, the clacky sound profile adds to the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a precise and comfortable typing experience with a medium tactile feel, then the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a satisfying level of resistance when pressed, providing a more tactile feedback. Moreover, their design ensures a quiet typing experience, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Lightning switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White switch depends on your priorities and preferences. If speed and responsiveness are your top concerns, go for the Lightning switch. However, if you value precision, comfort, and a quieter typing experience, then the Silent Bluish White switch is the better choice for you.
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