KTT Orange vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and Outemu Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The KTT Orange is a linear switch known for its bouncy feel and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a smooth and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback and a satisfying click with each keystroke, perfect for typists who enjoy auditory confirmation. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and 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
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Outemu Blue switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, the KTT Orange and Outemu Blue differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Orange utilizes polycarbonate for the bottom housing, further enhancing the sound profile, while the Blue opts for nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the KTT Orange and Outemu Blue switches play a significant role. The difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, with the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing creating a more defined bottom-out sound and feel, while the Blue's nylon bottom housing offers a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released, with the polycarbonate top housing of both switches enhancing the sharpness and clarity of the sound profile. Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials determines the overall sound and feel of each switch.
While both the KTT Orange and Outemu Blue switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Orange's use of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings results in a sharper and clearer sound profile throughout the typing experience. Conversely, the Blue's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone, showcasing the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in determining its sound profile and feel, emphasizing the importance of material selection in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, we see that the Orange is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the Orange is 46 grams, while the Blue requires 50 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Orange is 53 grams, whereas the Blue's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Orange switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Blue switch, even though its bottom out force is unknown. In general, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level of a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blue switch could provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so determining which one is better suited for you depends on your personal preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
The Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Orange linear switch is known for its low-pitched profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is not specified, but it typically produces a loud and clicky sound that is characteristic of clicky switches. Depending on personal preference and the setup of your keyboard, one may find the low-pitched sound of the Orange more enjoyable or the distinct clickiness of the Blue more satisfying.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Orange switch is described as bouncy and frictionless, providing a spring-like feedback with a lively feel. The keys offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, thanks to the excellent factory-lubing that minimizes friction and maximizes smoothness. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Blue switch is not specified, but clicky switches like the Blue typically offer a tactile bump and audible click upon actuation. If you prefer a more responsive and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better choice for you.
In conclusion, the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, while the Blue switch likely offers a loud and clicky sound with a tactile bump upon actuation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, you can choose between the two switches to enhance your overall typing experience. Keep in mind that individual preferences vary, so trying out both switches in person may provide the best insight into which one suits your needs the best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Orange switch offers a refined key travel that minimizes friction and provides a slick, frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue clicky switch might be more suitable for you. The Blue switch is known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key feel, sound, and typing experience.
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