KTT Mint vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean stand out as popular linear switches with their own unique qualities. The Mint is favored for its smooth linear action and satisfying thockiness due to its long pole stem, providing a light and fleeting typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean remains a silent linear switch with a focus on quiet operation. While the Mint is described as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Dustproof Silent Ocean lacks specific categorization. These differences make each switch appealing for different preferences and needs. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can choose 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. However, despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the overall sound and feel may be influenced by other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this feature, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch cannot be overlooked.
Overall, while the KTT Mint and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean share similarities in their housing materials, such as having polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the overall typing experience may vary depending on the specific combination of materials used. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel, versus the top housing material on the sound when releasing a key, can make a difference in the overall performance and feel of each switch. While both switches may produce similar results in terms of sound profile, the individual qualities of each material will ultimately differentiate the typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
The KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them both relatively light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mint requires 53 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean demands 65 grams, making it the heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The Mint is more medium-light in terms of bottom out force, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean falls into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Mint, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer distinct feels to cater to users with different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Mint switch offers a more traditional travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, which falls on the shallower end of the spectrum. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, while those who prefer a more solid and deeper key press experience may opt for the Mint switch. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of key press feel.
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 Silent Ocean 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, both switches' sound profiles may vary depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth actuation with reduced friction and sleek key travel. This makes it suitable for users looking for a comfortable and refined typing feel. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch are not available, making it difficult to compare the two switches in this regard. However, it can be assumed that both switches may offer a similar level of comfort and typing experience due to their linear nature.
Overall, while the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch in terms of sound and feel are unknown, based on the available information, it can be inferred that both switches may offer comparable results in terms of sound and feel due to their linear characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mint and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness, the Mint switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a silent linear switch, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Happy typing!
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