KTT Mint vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and Outemu Gold stand out for their unique characteristics. The Mint is a linear switch that boasts a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness thanks to its long pole stem. This switch offers a light and fleeting type feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that provides a distinct tactile feedback with every keystroke. While not much information is provided about its specific qualities, clicky switches are known for their audible sound and tactile bump. If you're looking for a switch that offers a quieter typing experience with smooth linear action, the Mint may be the way to go. Conversely, if you enjoy the audible feedback and tactile bump of a clicky switch, the Outemu Gold might be more up your alley. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Gold switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
While both the KTT Mint and Outemu Gold switches share the same materials for their top and bottom housings, the distribution of these materials creates different sound profiles. The qualities of the top housing, primarily made of polycarbonate, will impact the sound when a key is released. On the other hand, the bottom housing, mainly composed of nylon, will influence the sound and feel when a key is bottomed out. This distribution allows for a balance between the crispness and resonance brought by polycarbonate and the deeper, fuller sound produced by nylon.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Gold switches contribute to distinct sound profiles based on their composition. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for sharp and clear sound, and nylon bottom housings for deeper tones, the distribution of these materials within the switch results in varied sound experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile for key releases or a fuller sound for typing, understanding the impact of housing materials is crucial for selecting the right switch that suits your preferences.
Weight
Comparing the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Mint has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Gold's heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches require the same force to activate a keystroke, the Mint will provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions, the Mint may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Gold switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you prefer the linear feel of the Mint or the clicky feedback of the Gold, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is consistent, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Gold 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 sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is currently unavailable. However, it can be expected that the Gold switch might produce a high-pitched and clicky noise due to its clicky nature.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mint switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience. The switch's polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it a comfortable option for most users. As for the Gold switch, details on its feel are not provided. Based on its clicky nature, it can be assumed that the Gold switch offers a tactile and satisfying typing experience with audible feedback upon keypress.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Mint linear switch stands out for its smooth and satisfying typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Its mild and polished feel makes it a versatile option for various typing preferences. While information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch is limited, it can be inferred that it provides a tactile and clicky typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer audible feedback during typing. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a smooth and poppy thockiness with a light and fleeting typing feel, then the Mint switch with its medium-light bottom out force may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch without specific sound or feel preferences, the Gold switch could be a good option. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision to ensure that you choose the switch that will best enhance your typing experience.
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