KTT Mint vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mint and the Outemu Phoenix are two popular options that offer distinct features. The Mint is a linear switch renowned for its satisfyingly smooth keystrokes. With its long pole stem, typing on these switches provides a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting type feel. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Mint offers a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique switches available. Typing on the Phoenix evokes a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile. Categorized as crunchy and polished, these switches offer a distinct tactile experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mint and Outemu Phoenix switches are both made of polycarbonate, which creates 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. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Mint and Phoenix switches will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and compatibility with RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Mint switch utilizes a nylon material, while the Phoenix switch uses polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix switch contributes to its overall sound profile, providing a sharper and crisper tone. The difference in bottom housing materials results in a variation in the sound and feel of the switches when pressed down. The Mint switch will have a duller and rounder bottom-out sound, while the Phoenix switch will produce a more clear and resonant impact.
In terms of the impact on the sound when releasing a key, the top housing of both switches plays a significant role. Being made of polycarbonate, both the Mint and Phoenix switches create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when the key is released. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the resonant quality of the sound profile. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Mint or Phoenix switch, you can expect a similar effect on the sound when releasing the keys, thanks to the use of polycarbonate in their top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that there are some differences between the two. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Phoenix's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Mint weighing in at 53 grams and the Phoenix slightly heavier at 62 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mint, as its actuation force is on the lower side. This allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might lean towards the Phoenix with its heavier bottom out force. This provides a stronger push and a more tactile typing experience.
It's worth noting that without the information on the actuation force of the Phoenix, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of actuation. However, assuming that the actuation forces are similar or equal, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
In conclusion, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a medium-light actuation force and a medium bottom out force, the specific details of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch's actuation force are unknown, but it has a slightly heavier bottom out force. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the Mint has a longer travel distance at 4.0 mm, while the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm. The Mint's 4.0 mm distance is more in line with the traditional travel distance, providing a sense of depth and a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix's 3.3 mm distance is on the shallower side, appealing to gamers and individuals seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Phoenix allows for quicker key presses, giving a more responsive and nimble typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 satisfyingly smooth and quiet typing experience. With its long pole stem, users can expect a poppy thockiness when typing on these switches. The sound profile of the Mint is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. The feel of the Mint switch is mild and polished, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism. This mechanism creates a crystalline and sparkling sound and feel when typing. The sound profile of the Phoenix switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. The feel of the Phoenix switch is also polished, offering a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mint switch provides a low-pitched sound with a poppy thockiness and offers a mild and polished feel for gentle typing. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch delivers a crunchy sound with a crystalline and sparkling type feel and features a polished surface for a sleek typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the typing experience. However, if you are looking for a similar sound and feel to the Mint switch, the Phoenix switch may not provide the exact same results, as it has its own distinct qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying linear switch with a light and fleeting typing feel, the KTT Mint is an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a medium-light typing experience. The Mint's long pole stem contributes to a poppy thockiness, making it a popular option among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. In terms of sound, the Mint has a low-pitched and neutral profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. When it comes to feel, the Mint is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound, the Outemu Phoenix is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium typing experience. The Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available today. It provides a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Similar to the Mint, the Phoenix also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you are looking for a smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting feel, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the KTT Mint is the way to go. However, if you want a distinct clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling feel and a crunchy sound, the Outemu Phoenix is the perfect choice for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and environment to make an informed decision that will enhance your typing experience.
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