KTT Mint vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the KTT Mint, a linear switch, and the Outemu Lotus, also a linear switch. The Mint is praised for its smooth linear action, offering a satisfying typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. Users can expect a light and fleeting typing feel with this switch, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus doesn't have specific characteristics listed, leaving it open to interpretation. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different users, but it's important to take a closer look at their individual features to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus both play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The Mint's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. While the Mint's top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Lotus's nylon top housing offers a classic typing experience with a more muted sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Lotus, both switches utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder tone compared to harder plastics. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches means that the typing experience in terms of sound and feel may be more similar than different. However, the impact on the overall sound profile will differ when considering the top housing material of each switch.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Mint and the Outemu Lotus influences the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While the Mint's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound suitable for RGB lighting, the Lotus's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller tone. The nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a more muted sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience across the switches. Ultimately, the comparison between the housing materials highlights the unique characteristics and qualities that each switch brings to the table for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is the lighter option in terms of force. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in comparison to the Lotus which has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as light. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lotus would be the preferable choice, as it requires less force to activate the keystroke. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Mint due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers may find the shorter travel distance of the Lotus to be more favorable for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Mint. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Lotus 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
The KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness. This switch offers a light and fleeting typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle tactile response. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have any known descriptions for sound or feel. Although the sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by factors such as keycaps and keyboard build, the Mint switch is likely to provide a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Lotus switch may offer a different experience that is yet to be clarified.
Overall, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch may offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mint switch boasts a smooth and polished typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Lotus switch's characteristics remain to be fully disclosed. If the Lotus switch shares similar characteristics with the Mint switch, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of feel and sound. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, it is essential to consider personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience to determine which switch best suits individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, you should choose the Mint if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness. The Mint also offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Lotus if you prefer a lighter bottom out force. However, keep in mind that the Lotus does not have any specific sound or feel characteristics mentioned. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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