KTT Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switch is praised for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. With its factory-lubed components and high-quality materials like the polycarbonate milky top housing and POM stem, the KTT Orange switch guarantees a smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch lacks specific standout features but still provides a reliable linear typing experience. While the KTT Orange is marketed as bouncy, frictionless, and low-pitched, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch has no specific categorizations. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Outemu Dustproof Red switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This clarity in sound is ideal for those who enjoy a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, the KTT Orange features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of sharp and resonant sound qualities throughout the entirety of the switch's mechanism.
On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Orange. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a more muted typing experience. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how varying materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the top housing of both switches remains the same, the choice of nylon for the Dustproof Red's bottom housing provides a unique sound profile that sets it apart from the polycarbonate-bottomed KTT Orange.
Overall, the contrasting bottom housing materials of the KTT Orange and Outemu Dustproof Red switches highlight the impact that different housing materials can have on the typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the choice of polycarbonate for the KTT Orange's bottom housing results in a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. The combination of these different housing materials showcases the versatility and customization options available in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we see that the Orange switch is slightly lighter than the Dustproof Red. The Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Dustproof Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force, but the Dustproof Red is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the KTT Orange switch for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch. Overall, both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing options for different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Orange. The Orange with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Dustproof Red with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Dustproof Red 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
Overall, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a unique typing experience with a bouncy and frictionless feel, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. The long spring and excellent factory-lubing contribute to the smoothness and fluid key travel that minimizes friction. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's qualities are unknown in terms of sound and feel. While it is difficult to directly compare the two switches without more information on the Dustproof Red, it can be expected that the Orange switch will provide a more lively and smooth typing experience compared to the Dustproof Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for feel and sound, as well as other factors such as board and keycap choices.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and the key characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Orange switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch without specific key characteristics such as sound and feel, then the Outemu Dustproof Red switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
