KTT Mint vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mint linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there are clear differences that can influence your choice. The Mint is praised for its smooth linear action and satisfying thockiness when typing, giving it a light and fleeting typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is known for its clicky sound without any specific characteristics highlighted. If you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Mint might be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy the audible clickiness of a mechanical switch, the Outemu Blue could be the way to go. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Blue, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound that is amplified by the switch's translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. However, while the top housing material is the same, the Mint features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Blue also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound compared to its polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the impact each housing material has on typing feel, the qualities are split between the top and bottom housings. Pressing down on the Mint switch allows the user to feel the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing also affects the typing experience by creating a deeper sound profile when keys are pressed. However, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributing to the overall sound profile.
While both the KTT Mint and the Outemu Blue utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in slightly varied sound profiles. The Mint's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Blue's nylon bottom housing produces a duller, rounder sound. Despite these differences, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches emphasizes clarity and resonance in the sound output. Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches can significantly impact the typing experience, with each material contributing unique qualities to the overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Blue's 50 grams. This means that the Mint requires a slightly lighter touch to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Mint also has a lighter force of 53 grams compared to the Blue's unknown force. This suggests that the Mint may provide a softer landing when fully pressing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with the Mint being more medium-light in terms of force, while the Blue's force remains unknown. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel of the keystrokes. While the Mint and Blue switches may differ in terms of their actuation force or sound profile, their travel distance remains consistent at 4 mm. This ensures that users can expect a similar level of key travel whether they are using the Mint or Blue switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. This translates to a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness that is light and fleeting. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not specified, but clicky switches typically have a louder and more pronounced click sound compared to linear switches. Both switches will deliver distinct auditory feedback, with the Mint offering a more subdued and neutral sound while the Blue provides a more audible click with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, making for a comfortable and approachable typing feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's feel is not specified, but clicky switches typically provide tactile feedback with a noticeable bump in the keystroke. While the Mint switch offers a more subtle and polished typing experience, the Blue switch will provide a more tactile and pronounced feel with each key press.
Overall, the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mint switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel, while the Blue switch likely offers a louder click sound with tactile feedback. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with the Mint offering a smoother and quieter typing experience, while the Blue provides a more audible and tactile typing feel. Both switches can deliver satisfactory results based on individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should consider the Mint if you prefer a smooth and light linear switch with a satisfying typing experience. The Mint provides a gentle typing experience with a light and fleeting feel, making it ideal for a variety of typing tasks. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a more pronounced tactile feedback, you may prefer the Outemu Blue switch. The Blue switch offers a distinct clicky sound with each keypress, perfect for those who enjoy a more audible typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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