KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Lime. The Lightning switches are well-regarded for their "speed" capabilities, making them the ideal choice for those who value quick response times and precision. Typing on these switches provides a slick feel, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lime switches stand out for their unique combination of lightweight design, gentle tactility, and silent operation. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who desire a feathery light typing experience with just a subtle touch of tactility. While these general comparisons can help guide your decision, let's take a closer look at the specific characteristics and features of each switch to assist you in determining the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning and the Outemu Lime have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Lightning's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Lime's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences with distinct sound profiles. While the Lightning's polycarbonate produces a clear and resonant sound, the Lime's nylon creates a duller and rounder sound. However, both switches allow for the use of RGB lighting, thanks to the translucency of polycarbonate and the classic nature of nylon.
The bottom housings of the Lightning and the Lime are both made of nylon. This material choice for the bottom housing contributes to the switches' deeper and fuller sound profiles. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Though the nylon material is the same for both switches, the impact of the bottom housing on the sound and feel differs. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, while the switch may have different top housings, the impact of the bottom housing material remains consistent for both the Lightning and the Lime.
The top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound that is produced when a key is released. Here again, the Lightning and the Lime differ in their housing materials. The Lightning's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound when a key is released. On the other hand, the Lime's nylon top housing yields a deeper and fuller sound upon key release. These variations in sound are a result of the different properties of polycarbonate and nylon. Despite these differences, both switches deliver satisfying sound profiles and offer a distinct typing experience. Therefore, whether using the Lightning with its polycarbonate top housing or the Lime with its nylon top housing, users can expect comparable results when it comes to the sound produced when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light forces. The KTT Lightning has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Therefore, in terms of weight, both switches offer a lighter typing experience, which makes them suitable for extended typing periods or intense gaming sessions. However, it is worth noting that the KTT Lightning requires slightly more force to both trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Outemu Lime. Overall, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Outemu Lime to be a better option due to its slightly lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Nonetheless, both switches provide similar light forces for a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch have different travel distances. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Lime has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Compared to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, both of these switches fall on the shorter side. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the Lightning with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Lime and its slightly longer travel distance. Regardless of which option is chosen, users can expect a similar experience of pressing down on a key and feeling the switch travel from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40.
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 KTT Lightning switch is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound profile of the Lightning switch can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is known for its neutral sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. The Lime switch is considered muted, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle and polished experience. It provides a gentle resistance that is not overly feather-light but still maintains a light typing feel. The Lightning switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is notably mild and feathery. It offers a more gentle typing experience and requires little exertion from your fingers. The light actuation force of the Lime switch reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Similar to the Lightning, the Lime switch also features a subtle and polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and Outemu Lime switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Lightning switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, subtle resistance, and polished feel. It is suitable for those seeking a sleek typing experience with a sharp sound. On the other hand, the Lime switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, along with a mild and feathery feel. It is ideal for tactile enthusiasts looking for a lightweight typing experience with reduced finger strain. Despite their differences, both switches provide approachable qualities for different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values speed and milliseconds can make a difference for you, then the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a slick and clacky typing experience, perfect for gaming or situations where quick response times are crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a quieter sound profile, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the better option. These switches offer an approachable tactility, making them ideal for tactile fans who want a feathery light typing experience. Additionally, the Lime switches are silenced, ensuring a muted sound that is suitable for shared spaces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing experience.
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