KTT Mint vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and Outemu Crystal Brown offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Mint stands out as a linear switch, beloved for its smoothness and satisfying tactile feedback. With its long pole stem, typists can enjoy a poppy thockiness and a light, fleeting typing feel. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that provides a different typing experience. While not much information is provided about its specific qualities, tactile switches are known for providing a noticeable bump when pressed, giving typists a more pronounced sense of feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Crystal Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mint and the Crystal Brown also share a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Overall, both switches offer similar sound characteristics due to the materials used in their housing construction.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the KTT Mint and the Outemu Crystal Brown, the distribution of these materials within the switches impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing are more prominent when pressing down on the switches, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of each housing material in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
While the Mint and the Crystal Brown may share polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, the combination of these materials in different parts of the switches can result in distinct typing experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound profile and is ideal for RGB lighting, whereas the softer nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material influences the sound and feel of a switch allows users to make informed choices based on their preferences for typing feedback. Ultimately, the unique combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the KTT Mint and the Outemu Crystal Brown yields distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mint is lighter with 53 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams. This means that while both switches require the same initial force to actuate a key, the Mint will provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Crystal Brown due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and comfort level.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel before the key actuates. The 4 mm travel distance on both switches provides a consistent typing experience, whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch. This ensures that users will feel a consistent amount of key movement when typing on either switch, ultimately allowing for similar results in terms of typing comfort and actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Crystal Brown 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 is favored for its low-pitched and neutral profile, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have specific sound characteristics mentioned, so it's possible that it may not have a distinct sound profile. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is praised for its mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it approachable to most users due to its middle-ground qualities. The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have specific feel characteristics mentioned, so it may not have the same level of refinement and smoothness in key travel as the Mint switch.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound profile, moderate actuation force, gentle typing experience, and smooth key travel, the KTT Mint linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you're looking for a switch with tactile feedback and are not as concerned about specific sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch may still provide a satisfactory typing experience. Remember to consider your own preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a smooth and light linear switch with a poppy thockiness, go for the Mint. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Crystal Brown may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and the typing experience you are seeking.
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