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Outemu Silver vs. KTT Pine

An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and KTT Pine both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch known for its precise and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice for gamers and fast typists. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is also a linear switch but is best known for its medium-heavy actuation force and buttery smooth feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. While the Silver is categorized as a standard linear switch, the Pine is labeled with descriptors like "bassy," "buttery," "creamy," and "low-pitched," highlighting its unique sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits; 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

65g

Bottom-out force

58g

Pre-travel

1.60 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

In comparing the Outemu Silver and KTT Pine housing materials, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and an aesthetically pleasing translucency for RGB lighting. However, the Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile. The different bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel impacted by the nylon in the Silver and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.

While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the Outemu Silver and KTT Pine differ in their bottom housing materials. The Silver's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how the composition of the housing can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the softer nylon in the Silver offering a distinct typing feel compared to the stiffer polycarbonate in the Pine.

Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and KTT Pine play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that produce similar sound characteristics, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing in the Silver creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper and clearer sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Pine. Understanding the impact of these housing materials on the overall typing feel and sound profile is key to choosing the switch that best suits individual preferences.

Weight

The Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver switch has a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the Pine switch's 58 grams. The Silver switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Pine switch is lighter in comparison, making it perfect for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming. In terms of weight, the Silver switch is heavier overall, while the Pine switch is lighter, offering users different options based on their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their desired level of actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will get a similar experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of both switches allows for quick and smooth keystrokes, ideal for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for typing or gaming. Overall, while the Outemu Silver and KTT Pine linear switches may have different characteristics, their travel distance remains consistent at 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 Silver 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 Silver switch does not have a specific sound characteristic mentioned, while the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile. The Pine switches offer a deeper and richer tone during key presses, with a mellow and bass-heavy sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard setup and keycaps used.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silver does not have any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switches are described as buttery and creamy in feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Typing on creamy switches can feel silky and effortless, providing a smooth and uniform typing experience due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch construction.

Overall, while the Outemu Silver switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, it is important to note that both switches offer a linear feel, which means they have a consistent actuation force and smooth keystrokes. Based on the available information, the KTT Pine linear switch seems to provide a smoother and more buttery typing experience with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a tactile and auditory typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel during typing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch without any specific standout features, the Outemu Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and value a buttery smooth typing experience with a focus on sound quality, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on your typing style and desired typing experience.

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