KTT Lightning vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a variety of options available to suit different typing preferences and needs. Two popular switches to consider are the KTT Lightning and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The KTT Lightnings are renowned for their "speed" characteristics, making them an excellent choice for tasks where split-second decisions can make all the difference. Typing on these switches provides a smooth and slick feel, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. Alternatively, the TTC Speed Silvers offer a fast and precise typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize efficiency. These switches provide a light-medium resistance and boast a pristine sound profile. Additionally, with their reduced travel distance, they allow for quick and effortless actuation. However, to determine the best switch for you, it is crucial to delve deeper beyond these generalities and carefully consider your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the TTC Speed Silver switches are quite similar, as both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Lightning or the Speed Silver switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lightning and Speed Silver switches differ slightly. The Lightning switch features a nylon bottom housing, while the Speed Silver switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. The use of nylon in switch housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a slightly duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the Lightning switch compared to the Speed Silver switch.
Overall, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both the KTT Lightning and the TTC Speed Silver switches offer unique sound profiles due to the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. While the differences in bottom housing may result in subtle variations in sound, users can still benefit from the clear and resonant qualities brought by polycarbonate in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams. Both switches require a relatively low amount of force to trigger a keystroke, allowing for swift and responsive typing. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Lightning switch requires 50 grams while the Speed Silver demands a slightly heavier force of 55 grams. This means that the Speed Silver provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to fully press the keys.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter switch would find the actuation force of the Lightning switch appealing, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Speed Silver switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force. It is important to note, however, that while the bottom out force of the Speed Silver is heavier, it is still considered to be in the medium-light range.
In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Lightning and the TTC Speed Silver switches offer slight variations in terms of force required for keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have travel distances that fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for a quicker response time. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the KTT Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the TTC Speed Silver switch with its slightly longer travel distance could be more suitable. It is worth noting that both switches offer a departure from the more traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, providing users with options tailored to their preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Lightning switch produces a clacky sound when pressed. This means that it has a sharp and snappy sound profile that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. 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.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle typing experience. It has a gentle resistance that is not too light but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Like the KTT Lightning, it also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both switches have their unique qualities. The KTT Lightning switch is best suited for those who require speed and precision, with its slick typing feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is a good choice for those who want a fast and precise typing experience, with its light-medium level of resistance and neutral sound profile. While they have different sound profiles, their polished finishes provide a similar smooth and refined typing experience. As always, it's important to consider personal preferences and factors such as typing style and environment when choosing a keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value speed and precise typing, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its light bottom out force of 50 grams makes it perfect for those situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning or losing. Not only does it provide a slick typing feel, but it also has a clacky sound profile that adds to the overall experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a fast and effortless typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. These switches are designed for quick actuation, thanks to their reduced travel distance, making them perfect for users who want to type with speed and precision.
In terms of sound, the Lightning switch has a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, which adds a crisp and bright tone to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch has a more neutral sound profile that suits most intents and purposes, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a polished typing experience due to their smooth and refined finish. The Lightning switch is known for its subtle and polished feel, providing a gentle resistance without being too featherlight, and its sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Similarly, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished feel, which offers a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize speed, precise actuation, or a versatile typing experience, both switches have their unique advantages. Consider your desired typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force when making your decision, and you'll find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs. In closing, enjoy exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches and finding the one that suits you best.
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