Outemu Green vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Green and the KTT Pine mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the key differences between these two popular options. The Outemu Green switch is known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience without the audible click. If you prefer a louder and more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Green switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a buttery smooth key travel and a quieter typing experience, the KTT Pine switch could be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 Outemu Green and the KTT Pine both have polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the material's stiffness and clarity. This makes them ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate adds to the aesthetic appeal. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Green uses nylon while the Pine sticks with polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Green produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer composition, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their different choices for the bottom housing result in slightly varied sound profiles. The split in housing materials means that the qualities of each material will manifest in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing, influenced by nylon in the Green and polycarbonate in the Pine, affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Meanwhile, the top housing, predominantly polycarbonate in both switches, impacts the sound when a key is released. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Green and Pine switches offers a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles for both the actuation and release of keys.
In terms of sound, the stiffer polycarbonate top housing in both the Green and Pine switches creates a distinctive sharp and clear sound quality. This sharpness is further emphasized by the use of polycarbonate in the Pine's bottom housing as well. However, the Green's choice of a softer nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding a different dimension to the typing experience. While both switches offer a similar sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material showcases how variations in housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is clear that the Green switch is heavier in both aspects. The Green switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Pine switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches offer different typing experiences, with the Green switch providing a heavier feel and the Pine switch offering a lighter touch for a more comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it is evident that both switches require the same amount of keypress to actuate fully. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience a consistent typing feel regardless of which switch they choose. This means that whether you opt for the Outemu Green clicky switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and typing experience.
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 Green 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 Green clicky switch does not have a specific descriptor, while the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The Green switch's sound may be more standard and typewriter-like compared to the deeper, richer tones of the Pine switch. However, it is essential to consider that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Green switch lacks a specific descriptor, while the KTT Pine linear switch is recognized for its buttery and creamy feel. The buttery sensation of the Pine switch implies a smooth, fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. This could be attributed to the factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for a silky typing sensation. In contrast, the feel of the Green switch may be more straightforward without the same level of smoothness and uniformity.
Overall, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a traditional typing sound, the Outemu Green may be a suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a buttery smooth feel and a bassy sound profile, the KTT Pine switch could be the ideal choice for you. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your typing needs, so experimenting with different switches is key to finding the perfect fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking. If you prefer a heavier switch with a clicky sound and a tactile feel, the Outemu Green switch with its 80-gram bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Pine linear switch with its factory-lubed finish and buttery smooth keystrokes may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, noise preference, and desired feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your typing needs the most.
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