KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Matcha tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it's important to note their unique features. The Matcha is renowned for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing users with a distinct feel when typing. Additionally, its long pole stem contributes to a clean bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switch from Outemu offers a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, appealing to those in search of a satisfying yet silent switch. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that make it desirable, but what sets them apart? 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the Outemu Silent Grey both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as it is translucent, allowing the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Matcha has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silent Grey has a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the Silent Grey creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing in both the KTT Matcha and Outemu Silent Grey creates a similar effect of a sharper and crisper sound. However, the nylon bottom housing in the Silent Grey produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Matcha. The choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials used in the KTT Matcha and Outemu Silent Grey switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences in sound profiles. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing in the Silent Grey provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Matcha. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, switch enthusiasts may find one housing material more appealing than the other.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the Matcha is lighter in both aspects. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Matcha requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Silent Grey. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Matcha would be the preferable option. On the other hand, the Silent Grey provides a more substantial typing feel with heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer the same typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Matcha or the Silent Grey, you can expect a consistent and familiar feel when typing. Despite being different switches, their travel distances are identical, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which one they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The Outemu Silent Grey comes in at $3.10 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 Matcha switch is known for producing a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is designed to offer a quiet typing experience, so the sound will be much softer and less noticeable. Both switches will provide a different auditory experience, with the Matcha being more noticeable and distinct, while the Silent Grey will be more muted and subtle. The actual sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Matcha switch is often described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. This means that users can expect a switch with two stages of tactility, a responsive typing experience, a medium amount of tactile feedback, a light actuation force, and a gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch's feel is not specified here. Nevertheless, based on the fact that it is a highly tactile switch, users can expect a noticeable bump in the keystroke and a smooth overall feel. Both switches will offer a satisfying tactile experience, with the Matcha providing a more nuanced feel compared to the Silent Grey.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha and Outemu Silent Grey switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feels that cater to different preferences. The Matcha switch excels in providing a sharp, snappy sound and a multi-layered tactile feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Grey switch prioritizes a quiet operation and a smooth keystroke, ideal for users who prefer a more subdued typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches will deliver a tactile typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a snappy tactility and clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump, and smooth keystrokes, the Silent Grey could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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