Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Strawberry both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crystal switches are characterized by a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a distinct linear typing experience. Additionally, they produce a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With their attractive pink and clear housings, they offer a visually appealing option for keyboard enthusiasts. The Strawberry switches are known for their low-pitched sound, frictionless operation, and buttery feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Strawberry switches are both made of polycarbonate, which results in similar characteristics. Both switches feature a clear housing, allowing for RGB lighting to enhance the aesthetic appeal. The use of polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of these switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, producing a more clear and resonant sound. Pressing down on either switch will provide a similar tactile experience influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be impacted by the top housing.
However, despite these similarities, there may still be some subtle differences in the sound and feel of the two switches. As the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom, each housing will have a slightly different impact on the overall experience. The Crystal's polycarbonate top housing may offer a slightly sharper and crisper sound when releasing a key, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate top housing might have a slightly different resonance in its sound profile. Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch might provide a slightly different tactile feedback when pressing the keys, although both would still offer a firm and satisfying feel.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Crystal and KTT Strawberry switches results in comparable sound and feel characteristics. Both switches will provide a clear and crisp sound profile, with a higher-pitched tone and a satisfying tactile feedback. Whether you choose the Crystal or the Strawberry, you can expect a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly lighter than the Strawberry's 43 grams. Both switches have a medium-light actuation force, but the Crystal requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke.
In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal requires 55 grams of force, while the Strawberry requires 62 grams. This makes the Crystal lighter in terms of bottoming out, providing a more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force.
Considering weight, the Crystal switch offers a slightly lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Strawberry, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. If a user wants a similar result but prefers a heavier force, the Strawberry would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled by both switches. The travel distance is the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, and in this case, it is consistent between the two switches. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Crystal or the Strawberry linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile during typing. This means that the sound produced is not particularly high-pitched or bass-heavy. However, the Crystal switch has a unique acoustic signature described as "chirpy," which means it has a slight squeak. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, which tends to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a crisp and sharp sound, the Crystal may be a better choice. But if you enjoy a smoother and deeper sound, the Strawberry is a great option.
When it comes to feel, both the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Strawberry switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Crystal switch is described as "polished," which means it has a refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This sleek typing experience is achieved through the choice of materials used and potentially factory lubing. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is described using multiple terms such as "frictionless," "silky," and "buttery," all emphasizing the extremely smooth and effortless typing experience it provides. The Strawberry switch minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys, resulting in a fluid travel and a seamless, uniform typing sensation.
Overall, both switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Crystal switch offers a chirpy sound profile and a polished feel, providing a linear typing experience with medium-light weight. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch has a low-pitched sound profile, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience with reliable performance. While the Crystal switch offers a more unique sound, the Strawberry switch provides various descriptors emphasizing smoothness. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences. However, if you are looking for similar results, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, although with slightly different sound profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and offer a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be a suitable option. These switches have attractive pink and clear housings, providing a visually appealing experience. In terms of sound, the Crystal offers a chirpy and high-pitched profile, while the Strawberry has a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone. When it comes to feel, the Crystal is described as polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. The Strawberry, on the other hand, offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so it would be best to choose based on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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