Outemu Gold vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and KTT Pine offer distinct experiences for users seeking a clicky or linear switch, respectively. The Outemu Gold is known for its clicky feedback and tactile feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying sound and response of each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Pine stands out for its buttery smooth, medium-heavy linear action, providing a quieter typing experience that is still incredibly satisfying. While the Gold offers a more traditional clicky typing experience, the Pine excels in smoothness and quiet operation. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Gold and KTT Pine switches share some similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Pine switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of a sharper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch results in different experiences while typing. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, with the Outemu Gold switch featuring a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key. In this case, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, meaning they will offer a similar sound profile when keys are released, emphasizing the sharp, crisp, and resonant qualities of polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly influence the sound and feel of typing. The Outemu Gold and KTT Pine switches showcase how different materials in the top and bottom housing can create distinct characteristics in the typing experience. While both switches use polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharp and resonant sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials - nylon for the Gold and polycarbonate for the Pine - provides variations in sound depth and texture. Whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is apparent that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the KTT Pine linear switch's 58 grams. This difference is minimal and both can be considered medium-weight switches. The Gold switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the slightly higher bottom out force, while the Pine switch could be preferred by those looking for a slightly lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference, with some users preferring a lighter feel for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier push for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is evident that they offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the switch moves when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Outemu Gold clicky switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its unique clicky sound profile, while the KTT Pine linear switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound. The Gold switch will provide a distinct click with each keystroke, offering a satisfying auditory feedback for those who enjoy the clicky typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch delivers a deeper and richer sound that resonates with a lower frequency range, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. Both switches offer a different sound experience, so the choice between them will depend on personal preference and the desired typing sound.
In terms of feel, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch's specific qualities are unknown, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience. The Pine switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The buttery and creamy descriptors indicate a silky and smooth typing experience that allows fingers to glide across the keys with ease. This tactile feedback can enhance the overall typing comfort and efficiency, making the Pine switch a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Gold switch provides a unique clicky sound profile, while the Pine switch delivers a bassy sound and a buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a clicky or linear switch and the type of typing experience you seek, you can choose between these switches to customize your mechanical keyboard setup. While the sound and feel qualities may vary between the Gold and Pine switches, both options offer high-quality performance that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Outemu Gold switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, the KTT Pine switch would be a better fit. The Gold switch is known for its clicky feedback, while the Pine switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. If you enjoy a bassy sound profile and are looking for a creamy, effortless keystroke feel, the Pine switch would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and switch characteristics.
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