KTT Mint vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and clicky switches can greatly impact your typing experience. The KTT Mint is a linear switch that is beloved for its satisfyingly smooth feel. With its long pole stem, typing on the Mint switch results in a satisfying "poppy thockiness." Additionally, the Mint switch provides a light and fleeting typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch known for its distinct clicky typing experience. The weight of the Sage switch is on the heavier side, adding a sense of solidity to each keystroke, and the clickiness is refreshingly sharp. While these generalities may give you an initial idea of what each switch offers, diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Sage switches have several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Similarly, both switches have a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows for greater sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite these similarities, there are also differences between the switches' housing materials. The Mint's polycarbonate top housing, due to its transparency, enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is implemented. On the other hand, the Sage's polycarbonate top housing likely offers a similar sound profile, but its exact aesthetics are not specified. Additionally, the Mint's nylon bottom housing may provide a different typing experience, as nylon has a reputation for generating a deeper and fuller sound. The Sage's nylon bottom housing, while also contributing to a fuller sound profile, may possess slightly different acoustic properties compared to the Mint due to any variations in the composition or design.
Both the top and bottom housing materials have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. When depressing a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the release sound is influenced by the top housing. Therefore, the differences between the top and bottom housing materials in the Mint and Sage switches may lead to variations in the typing experience, particularly in terms of sound feedback and tactile response.
In summary, the KTT Mint and Kailh Sage switches have similar polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing materials, resulting in comparable sound profiles. However, the Mint's transparent polycarbonate top housing enhances visual aesthetics when RGB lighting is utilized, while the Sage's appearance is not specifically described. Additionally, the switch's typing experience may differ due to the unique properties of the polycarbonate and nylon materials used in the top and bottom housing respectively. Regardless, both switches demonstrate the impact of housing materials on sound and feel, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and the top housing affecting the release sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see some distinct differences. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Sage is unavailable, making it difficult to determine a direct comparison. However, the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating that the Sage requires a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. This makes the Mint switch lighter overall, which can be advantageous for those who prefer extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel, the heavier bottom out force of the Sage may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we find that they have slightly different measurements. The Mint has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. The Mint's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the most traditional range, providing a good amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Sage's 3.6mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it more suitable for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Sage would be a better option. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial depth to your key presses, then the Mint with its longer travel distance would be the preferable choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched nature of the Mint switch gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a satisfyingly deep sound during typing. Additionally, the neutral sound profile ensures that it is suitable for most situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it at home or at work. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps you use.
On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy typing experience. The distinctive clickiness of the Sage switch is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, providing a refreshing and sharp sound during typing. This switch has a heavier weight which adds to the tactile sensation and makes each keypress feel more substantial.
Moving on to the feel, the Mint switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of the switch provides a gentle and approachable typing sensation, suitable for most users. The polished finish of the switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. This smoothness can be achieved either through the materials used or factory lubrication.
On the other hand, the Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp feel. With a pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force, the Sage switch provides a snappy and reactive typing sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. The sharp tactile bump of the Sage switch ensures that each keypress is distinctly felt, adding to the overall immersive feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the KTT Mint linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Mint switch provides a smooth and light typing experience with a satisfying poppy thockiness, low-pitched sound, and a mild and polished feel. Meanwhile, the Sage switch offers a heavier and more pronounced typing experience with a sharp clickiness, crunchy sound, and an invigorating and sharp feel. If the user prefers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound and a gentle typing experience, the Mint switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if the user enjoys a sharp and distinct clicking sound accompanied by a more substantial tactile feedback, the Sage switch would be the preferred option. It's important to consider personal preferences and desired typing experience when deciding between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a satisfyingly smooth typing experience and a light and fleeting feel, then the KTT Mint switch would be a great choice. It has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch. The Mint switch also offers a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Mint switch provides a mild and polished experience, with a gentle typing sensation and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct clicky typing experience and prefer a medium-heavy switch, then the Kailh Sage switch would be a better fit. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Sage switch offers a refreshing sharp clickiness and a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Sage switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile experience, with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Mint and Sage switches would depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a smooth and light linear switch with a mellow sound and gentle feel, the Mint switch is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a heavier feel and a crisp tactile experience, then the Sage switch would be a better fit. Consider your typing style, preferred sound, and desired tactile feedback when making your decision.
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