KTT Orange vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and the Outemu Silent Grey offer unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The KTT Orange switch is praised for its bouncy feel and frictionless typing experience, with a low-pitched sound profile that appeals to those looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch provides a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and silent typing session. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for a variety of typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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 Silent Grey switches are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches using RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Orange uses polycarbonate while the Silent Grey utilizes nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Grey produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate used in the Orange.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Outemu Silent Grey switches play a significant role. The characteristics of the top housing material, polycarbonate, impact the sound when a key is released, creating a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the qualities of the bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. The stiffness of polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the softer and more sound absorbent nature of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound experience with a rounder tone.
Despite the differences in the bottom housing materials between the KTT Orange and the Outemu Silent Grey switches, both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. This ensures that users will experience a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when using either switch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetics of the switches, especially when RGB lighting is involved. While the bottom housing materials may vary, the top housing material plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, ensuring a consistent user experience in terms of sound and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we find that the Orange switch is lighter overall. The Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required for key presses. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. While both switches offer a different typing experience based on the force required, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Orange switch for longer typing sessions, while those seeking a more substantial feel may opt for the heavier force of the Silent Grey switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it's evident that the Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Grey has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Grey switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of desired key feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Grey 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Orange linear switch is best known for its low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is known for offering a quiet typing experience, but further information on its sound profile is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange linear switch is described as providing a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The 22mm long spring gives a bouncy feel, creating a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that offers a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the frictionless nature of the Orange switch ensures a smooth and effortless keystroke, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. On the other hand, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Grey switch is not available.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Orange linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile, bouncy and frictionless feel, and smooth key travel due to excellent factory-lubing. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is recognized for its quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired. If a user enjoys a bouncy feel and low-pitched sound, the KTT Orange switches would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a quiet and tactile experience may prefer the Outemu Silent Grey switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and silent typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch would be the better option. Consider your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force when deciding between these two switches to ensure that you choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both the KTT Orange and Outemu Silent Grey switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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