Outemu Crystal Brown vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and KTT Peach offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. In contrast, the KTT Peach is a linear switch, offering a smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile. While the Crystal Brown is best known for its tactile feedback, the Peach is renowned for its smoothness and sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Peach lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown and the Peach have different bottom housings, with the Crystal Brown using nylon and the Peach also utilizing nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, whether nylon in the Crystal Brown or Peach, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both switches, influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Crystal Brown and the Peach offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing, making them suitable choices for different typing preferences.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Peach share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Peach's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preferences in sound and feel, with both options providing unique qualities that cater to different typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Crystal Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Peach's 53 grams. This difference in bottom out force means that the Crystal Brown switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Peach switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Peach switch may be the ideal choice, as it offers a lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance may find the Crystal Brown switch more suitable. Overall, both switches offer a medium-light actuation and bottom out force, providing a comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key that uses either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This similarity ensures that you will receive consistent tactile feedback and typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. Having the same travel distance of 4 mm allows for a comfortable typing experience with both switches, giving you a smooth and consistent feel with each keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Peach comes in at $2.91.
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 Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific reputation, while the KTT Peach linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that the Peach switches offer a deeper, more bass-heavy sound compared to other switches, providing a pleasant typing experience suitable for various environments. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps you are using.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific description, while the KTT Peach linear switch is characterized as mild. This means that the Peach switches provide a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, offering a middle-ground feel that is not too extreme in any particular aspect.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Peach linear switch have different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preference when choosing between them. If you enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a gentler typing experience, the Peach switches may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a switch with unspecified sound and feel qualities, the Crystal Brown switches may still provide a satisfying typing experience. It ultimately comes down to your own unique preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and quiet linear switch with a lower bottom out force, the KTT Peach switch would be a great option. Consider your preferences for typing feel and sound profile when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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