Outemu Black vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black and the KTT Strawberry, both of which are linear switches. The Outemu Black is best known for its durability. Meanwhile, the KTT Strawberry is celebrated for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, thanks to its low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished characteristics. If you prioritize a comfortable typing experience and smooth actuation, the KTT Strawberry may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with specific qualities in mind, the Outemu Black could be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can determine the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
65g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and KTT Strawberry both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Black's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound associated with polycarbonate, emphasizing clarity and resonance over depth and fullness.
Despite both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing, the Outemu Black and KTT Strawberry differ in their bottom housing material. While the Black's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the differences in sound profile between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Black and KTT Strawberry showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile of mechanical switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharp and clear sound profile, while the bottom housing material determines the depth and fullness of the sound. Whether nylon for a deeper sound or polycarbonate for a sharper sound, each housing material brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. By understanding the characteristics of these materials, keyboard enthusiasts can choose the switch that best matches their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate a key and 82 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. In contrast, the Strawberry only needs 43 grams to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter choice. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Strawberry would be the better option, as it requires less force to press keys. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Outemu Black would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same level of travel distance. Despite this similarity, it is worth noting that the Outemu Black switch is known for its smooth linear actuation, while the KTT Strawberry switch is praised for its unique sound profile. Overall, while both switches may have the same travel distance, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its lack of distinct characteristics in terms of sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched tone, which typically results in a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In regard to feel, the Outemu Black switch does not have any specific descriptors available. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for being frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These descriptors highlight the smooth and effortless typing experience that the Strawberry switch offers, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This results in a fluid and refined typing sensation that enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Black and KTT Strawberry linear switches may have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both offer reliable performance in their own right. If a user enjoys a switch with a neutral sound profile and is content with an undefined feel, the Outemu Black may be a suitable choice. However, if someone prefers a switch with a low-pitched sound and a smooth, frictionless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry switch would be a more appealing option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you should consider factors such as your preferred bottom out force and the overall typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 62 grams and value smooth actuation, comfort, and reliability, the Strawberry switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, buttery, or polished feel, the Strawberry switch may better meet your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and needs.
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