Outemu Phoenix vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix and the KTT Wine Red are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most unique clicky switches available today. With a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, it provides a satisfyingly crunchy and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red is a linear switch that offers an intoxicating feel and sound. With a pillowy light touch and a deep and rich sound profile, typing on the Wine Red switches can be an immersive experience. Categorized as bassy and low-pitched, it offers a different typing sensation compared to the Phoenix. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the KTT Wine Red are both polycarbonate. This means that they share similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with these specific sound and lighting qualities, both the Outemu Phoenix and the KTT Wine Red would provide similar results.
While the materials used in the top and bottom housings are the same for both the Outemu Phoenix and the KTT Wine Red, it's worth noting that these housings contribute different qualities to the overall switch experience. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the characteristics of the polycarbonate bottom housing will be more pronounced during key press. On the other hand, when you release a key, the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound produced. The polycarbonate top housing will have a noticeable effect on the sound profile when the key is released. So, while the housing materials may be the same, the specific housing assigned to the top or bottom of a switch can influence the overall sound experience.
In summary, both the Outemu Phoenix and the KTT Wine Red utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This results in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, high pitch, and crispness. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the specific qualities of the top and bottom housings can have varying effects on the key press and release sound. While the Phoenix and Wine Red may share the same housing material, understanding the specific roles of the top and bottom housings can help users determine which switch better suits their preferences for key feel and sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is clear that they differ in terms of weight. The Phoenix has an actuation force that is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of heaviness.
On the other hand, the Wine Red switch has an actuation force of 44 grams, indicating a lighter touch is required to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force is 55 grams, which falls in the range of medium-light.
For those who prefer a lighter touch and wish to type for extended periods, the Wine Red switch would be more suitable. Its lighter actuation force allows for smoother and faster typing. Additionally, gamers who engage in long gaming sessions might appreciate the lightweight nature of this switch.
However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Outemu Phoenix switch might be the better choice. While we do not have the specific actuation force information, its comparatively heavier bottom out force suggests a switch that requires more force to press full down.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. The Phoenix switch offers a potentially heavier and more satisfying keystroke, while the Wine Red switch provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Wine Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most common and 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. Choosing the shorter option, like the Phoenix, can provide greater responsiveness. On the other hand, some people may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper key press, the switch with the longer travel distance, like the Wine Red, may be more suitable for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 Phoenix clicky switch is best described as having a crunchy profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is best described as having a bassy sound profile. This means that the sound produced during key presses is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Wine Red switches are characterized as having a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as having a polished sensation. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel when using these switches. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique click mechanism, which provides a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. It offers the experience of typing on a keyboard that resembles the satisfying sensation of crunching autumn leaves. The KTT Wine Red linear switch, on the other hand, is characterized by a pillowy light feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, reminiscent of bass tones. Although the feel of the Wine Red switch is unknown, it can be inferred that it may not possess the same polished and refined sensation as the Phoenix switch. Overall, if you are seeking a clicky switch with a distinctive feel and sound, the Outemu Phoenix would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a light and rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red could provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and satisfying clicky switch, the Outemu Phoenix would be an excellent choice. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile that is unmatched in the market. The Phoenix also has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a moderate typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother linear switch, the KTT Wine Red would be a great option. These switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. When typing on the Wine Red switches, you can expect a pillowy light feel and a deep, rich sound profile. They offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, adding a satisfying depth to each keystroke.
In terms of sound, the Phoenix switches are best described as crunchy. They produce a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, which adds a pleasant tactile feedback to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches are characterized as bassy and low-pitched. They offer a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
In terms of feel, the Phoenix switches are described as polished. This means they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Wine Red switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch will depend on your personal preference. If you desire a unique clicky switch with an exciting tactile feedback, go for the Phoenix. If a smoother and lighter linear switch with a deep, rich sound profile appeals to you, the Wine Red would be an excellent option. Consider your typing style and sound preference to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches offer their own distinctive features that can enhance your typing experience.
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