KTT Mint vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Outemu Ocean offer unique experiences based on their design. The Mint is a linear switch, loved for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. It provides a light and fleeting type feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound with a polished touch. On the other hand, the Ocean is a tactile switch, known for its tactile feedback without any particular standout features mentioned. While the Mint offers a specific typing experience, the Ocean's description leaves room for interpretation. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Ocean, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Mint incorporating nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Ocean also opts for nylon to provide a similar effect.
While both the Mint and the Ocean utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound production. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. This adds a distinct quality to the typing experience on both keyboards. However, the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, while the top housing will influence the sound upon key release.
In summary, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the KTT Mint and the Outemu Ocean leads to a similar sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both keyboards results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The different materials used for the top and bottom housing create a unique sound experience for users, with the qualities of each material coming into play depending on how keys are pressed and released. Ultimately, both keyboards offer a combination of materials that contribute to a dynamic and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we find that the Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mint is slightly heavier at 53 grams while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mint switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ocean switch may be more appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In any case, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. However, other factors such as actuation force and tactile feedback may differ between the two switches, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, whether you choose the KTT Mint or the Outemu Ocean, you can expect a smooth and consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 4mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu 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 is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that it provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone while also having a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, so it's hard to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Mint linear switch is described as mild and polished. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the specific feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not provided, if we compare it to the Mint switch, we can expect a different tactile feedback due to the tactile nature of the Ocean switch. However, without specific descriptors, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, if you were to choose between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you can expect different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Mint switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and polished feel, offering a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the qualities of the Ocean switch are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you would be to try them both out and see which one aligns more with your preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel, then the KTT Mint switch is the way to go. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams offers a nice balance between actuation force and typing comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an undefined bottom out force, the Outemu Ocean switch may be more up your alley. While the Ocean switch lacks specific details in terms of sound and feel, it still offers a unique typing experience with its tactile feedback. Ultimately, choose the switch that best fits your typing preferences and needs.
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