KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Yellow Silver. These switches, both linear in design, offer their own unique qualities. The KTT Lightnings are known for their "speed" factor, making them the go-to choice for competitive gaming where every millisecond matters. Typing on these switches provides a slick feel accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silvers, produced by a reliable manufacturer, boast a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making them ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits you.
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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 the Outemu Yellow Silver switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing materials. This choice of material results in a similar effect on the sound profile of both switches. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which produces a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Lightning and Yellow Silver switches will offer similar results when it comes to the sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ. The Lightning utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Yellow Silver also employs nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is acknowledged as a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer texture allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a softer and rounder sound. Therefore, the typing experience on both switches may vary slightly due to the different bottom housing materials.
Additionally, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials can be felt differently when using these switches. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the typing experience when pressing down on a key will be influenced mostly by the bottom housing material. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, despite their differences in bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches may still be comparable due to the shared qualities of their top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The KTT Lightning has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver requires a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier.
The lighter actuation force of the KTT Lightning makes it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This allows for extended typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. Additionally, it lends itself well to gaming sessions where quick and precise keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver provides a medium-light actuation force, making it a good choice for those who desire a stronger push feel during typing. This can provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience.
Both switches account for the weight preference of individuals, offering options for those who favor lighter or heavier forces. It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the KTT Lightning and Outemu Yellow Silver, the difference is marginal. Therefore, if one is seeking similar results, they can expect comparable outcomes from both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference regarding the desired force required for typing and the overall typing experience one wishes to achieve.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Yellow Silver is more traditional, offering a depthier feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3.0mm travel distance is shallower, making it a preferred option for gamers who prioritize faster response times. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two switches, as the shorter travel distance of the Lightning may feel abrupt to some individuals, while others may appreciate its increased responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision should be based on whether a person values depth and solidity or faster reaction times.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, it has a high-pitched characteristic, which adds to its distinct sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. It does not have any specific descriptors mentioned, indicating that it does not have any unique acoustic signatures. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its subtle and polished characteristics. The subtle feel indicates that it has a gentle resistance, providing a light typing experience that is not feather-like but still offers a comfortable feedback. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific description provided for the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the KTT Lightning switch is designed with speed in mind. Its approachable "speed" switch nature makes it ideal for scenarios where milliseconds can decide success or failure. It offers a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, providing a distinctive and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. It features a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. While the specific feel and sound characteristics of the Yellow Silver switch are unknown, it still offers an appealing option for those looking for speed and responsiveness in their mechanical keyboard switches. It is important to consider personal preferences, as well as the combination of the switch with other components such as the keyboard board and keycaps, to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch that offers a "speed" advantage and precise responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams and slick typing feel, these switches are ideal for situations where milliseconds can make a difference in your performance. They also produce a clacky sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory experience to your typing or gaming sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a medium-light feel that strikes a balance between ease of typing and responsiveness. They are particularly favorable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Furthermore, the Yellow Silver switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of uses, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them in different environments.
In conclusion, both the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches have their own strengths and advantages. Depending on your specific preferences and requirements, either of these switches can enhance your typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to whether you prioritize speed and a clacky sound profile (Lightning) or a slightly higher actuation force and a neutral sound profile (Yellow Silver).
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