Outemu Blue vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch to the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that they offer unique typing experiences. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy auditory and tactile responses. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is recognized for its medium-heavy feel, buttery smooth keystrokes, and low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for users seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience. While the Outemu Blue switch may be preferred by those who appreciate the clicky sound, the KTT Pine switch appeals to users who value a smooth and quiet typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue and KTT Pine switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Blue switch features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Pine switch maintains the polycarbonate material for both the top and bottom housing, emphasizing clarity and resonance throughout the switch.
While both the Outemu Blue and KTT Pine switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their bottom housing materials differ. The Blue switch's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Pine switch's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains sharpness and clarity. These differences in bottom housing material will have an impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed. The bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing, while the release sound will be influenced by the top housing material.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches, such as the Outemu Blue and KTT Pine, can greatly impact the sound profile and feel of the switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their bottom housing materials vary, leading to differences in sound characteristics. The Blue switch's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Pine switch's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains sharpness and clarity. Understanding the qualities of each housing material can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that the Pine switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the 50 grams of the Blue switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine switch is heavier, needing 58 grams while the Blue switch's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Pine switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Blue switch with a slightly higher actuation force. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel before the switch actuates. This similarity in travel distance suggests that typing on either switch will feel relatively consistent in terms of key travel. Overall, both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer a standard travel distance of 4 mm, providing a familiar typing experience for users of either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and audible click sound, providing a tactile feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience during typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue switch focusing on a sharp click while the Pine switch delivers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone.
As for feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is recognized for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a satisfying feedback and response to every keystroke. In comparison, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimal friction and resistance. While the Blue switch emphasizes tactile feedback and audible click, the Pine switch prioritizes a seamless and uniform typing experience with its smooth and lubricated operation.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue switch excels in providing a tactile and audible typing experience with its crisp click sound, while the Pine switch focuses on a smooth and buttery keystroke feel with its factory-lubed finish. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for either a clicky and tactile feedback or a smooth and buttery typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, you should choose the Blue if you prioritize a clicky typing experience with no bottom out force. The Blue switch is known for its tactile feedback and audible click that enhances typing feedback. On the other hand, opt for the KTT Pine linear switch if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience. The Pine switch's factory-lubed finish minimizes friction for effortless key travel, providing a comfortable typing sensation. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feedback and experience.
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