KTT Mint vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Outemu Silent Grey offer unique qualities for different typing preferences. The Mint is a linear switch renowned for its smooth typing experience and satisfying poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Silent Grey is a tactile switch that provides a quiet yet highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the Mint is characterized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Silent Grey does not have specific categorizations provided. Each switch caters to different typing preferences, with the Mint offering a light and fleeting type feel while the Silent Grey appeals to those seeking something satisfying and silent. 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
50g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Silent Grey, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The aesthetic appeal of a clear housing is also attributed to polycarbonate, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Mint features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Silent Grey also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Mint.
While the top housing material of both the KTT Mint and the Outemu Silent Grey is polycarbonate, providing a sharp and clear sound profile, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart. The Nylon bottom housing in both switches adds a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the top polycarbonate housing. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience and the perceived quality of the switch. However, the split in housing materials allows for a unique blend of qualities between the top and bottom of the switch, enhancing both the typing feel and sound output.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the KTT Mint and the Outemu Silent Grey plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel of the switch. While both switches benefit from the sharp and clear sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing, the use of nylon in the bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound quality. This split in housing materials allows for a balance between the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing and the sound when releasing a key from the top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the Mint is lighter in both aspects compared to the Silent Grey. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Mint switch provides a medium-light touch, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, whereas the Silent Grey switch offers a medium-heavy touch, providing a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the preference of users who may prefer a lighter or heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key. Users who prefer a shorter travel distance may find both switches to be suitable options. However, those who prefer a longer travel distance may need to look for other switch options that better suit their preferences. Overall, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Silent Grey 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch does not have a specific sound description provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard model and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the switch offers a gentle and approachable feel, with smooth and refined key travel resulting in reduced friction. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch does not have a specific feel description provided.
In conclusion, the KTT Mint linear switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is praised for its quiet and highly tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so trying out both to see which one suits your typing style best would be the ideal way to determine the better choice for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light linear switch with a satisfying feel and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Mint switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced bump, a medium-heavy bottom out force, and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Happy typing!
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