KTT Mint vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, each offering distinctive typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The KTT Mint, a linear switch, is celebrated for its satisfyingly smooth actuation and unique poppy thockiness that arises from its long pole stem, making it ideal for users seeking a light and fleeting typing feel—perfect for both gaming and fast-paced typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that provides feedback without the loud click, allowing for a more subdued response while typing; however, it lacks unique features that enhance its appeal in comparison to the Mint. While the Mint appeals to those who prioritize speed and a smooth glide, the Dustproof Brown caters to typists who enjoy tactile feedback without being overly noisy. Both switches have their unique strengths, depending on individual preferences and use cases. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to similar auditory experiences. The polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making each keystroke sound crisper and more resonant. Additionally, this material's translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, creating a visually appealing aesthetic that brings life to any keyboard setup. Since both switches feature the same polycarbonate top housing, users can expect comparable sound characteristics and lighting display capabilities, reinforcing the idea that the choice of this material plays a critical role in the overall sensory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the KTT Mint and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches employ nylon, further reinforcing their similarities. The use of nylon, known for its softer plastic properties, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This material absorbs more sound than its harder counterparts, creating a more muted and rounded auditory experience during keystrokes. Consequently, while both switches may offer a high-pitched sound from their polycarbonate top housings, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer and more subdued bottom-out feel. This blend of characteristics allows users to enjoy a balance of sound quality, where different aspects of the materials influence their typing experience.
When considering the combination of materials used in the KTT Mint and Outemu Dustproof Brown, it becomes clear that they were designed to offer distinct yet complementary experiences. The polycarbonate top housing enhances sharpness and clarity during key release, whereas the nylon bottom housing serves to soften the impact of each keystroke. Although the top and bottom housings differ in material properties, their thoughtful pairing creates a cohesive typing experience, where the auditory contrast between high and low frequencies is harmoniously managed. Thus, regardless of the switch you choose, the underlying blend of materials ensures both switches deliver exceptional sound profiles tailored to personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, both switches exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing users with a light touch ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming marathons. However, their bottom out forces differ significantly; the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Dustproof Brown requires a heftier push of 65 grams. This means that, while the initial actuation feels similar and lightweight with both switches, the Dustproof Brown's heavier bottom out force offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer key press. Consequently, users seeking a light and easy typing experience may gravitate towards the KTT Mint, whereas those desiring a stronger tactile feedback will likely prefer the Outemu Dustproof Brown.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, which means that when you press down on either key, you'll experience the same depth of movement. This similarity in travel distance results in comparable keypress feedback and overall typing experience. As a result, users looking for either switch can expect similar results in terms of how far the key travels before registering a keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Dustproof 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 comparing the sound of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, the Mint is favored for its low-pitched resonance, which tends to provide a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. This characteristic gives it a satisfying auditory feedback, enhanced by its neutral sound profile, making it versatile across various environments whether at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Dustproof Brown is not specified, leaving a gap in comparison. Generally, tactile switches like the Dustproof Brown are expected to produce a clicky sound upon actuation, but without detailed information, we can't ascertain its exact audio qualities or how they hold up against the Mint.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mint switch excels with its mild and polished attributes. The mild nature provides a gentle typing experience, ensuring that typists don't feel overwhelmed by overly pronounced feedback, which may appeal to a broader range of users. The polished aspect suggests a fluid key travel owing to superior materials and possible factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and a seamless interaction with each keypress. Conversely, no details are provided regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch. Typically, tactile switches deliver a distinct bump at the actuation point, which can create a more engaging typing experience for users seeking feedback, but lacking specific descriptors for the Dustproof Brown prevents any confident comparison.
In conclusion, while the KTT Mint linear switch clearly presents a well-rounded blend of smooth and appealing sound qualities along with a refined and gentle typing feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch leaves many questions unanswered due to its lack of detailed descriptions in both sound and feel. As a newcomer, you can expect the Mint to offer a satisfying experience, while the Dustproof Brown may require further exploration or might be better understood once fully experienced in a hands-on context. If these attributes align with what you seek, the Mint could be a more predictable choice, while the Dustproof Brown remains an unknown that could surprise.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and what you seek from your keyboard experience. If you enjoy a smooth, refined typing feel with a lighter actuation force, the KTT Mint should be your go-to option. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, along with the long pole stem design, offers a unique poppy thockiness that enhances the overall tactile experience, making it ideal for both casual typing and gaming sessions. The low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile contributes to a satisfying auditory feedback that can be enjoyable in various environments, whether at home or in an office.
Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience and appreciate feedback through tactile sensations, the Outemu Dustproof Brown with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams might be more to your liking. While it lacks the polished characteristics of the Mint, the tactile response can contribute to a more deliberate typing approach, offering a sense of fulfillment with each keystroke. The Dustproof feature is also a bonus for those concerned about switch longevity and cleanliness, making it suitable for both everyday use and gaming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific typing style—whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness with the KTT Mint or a more pronounced tactile engagement with the Outemu Dustproof Brown.
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