KTT Lightning vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose between the KTT Lightning and the Cherry MX Red, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. The KTT Lightning is a linear switch that is ideal for those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing or gaming experience, making it a top choice for competitive gamers who rely on split-second reactions to gain an edge. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is also a linear switch but offers a slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who value a more robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Cherry MX Red switches, one key difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This contrasts with the MX Red's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound by virtue of its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While the Lightning's polycarbonate top housing lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, the MX Red's nylon top housing provides a classic typing experience with a more rounded sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Lightning and the MX Red utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deep and full sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon helps to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite both switches sharing the same material for their bottom housings, the impact of the housing material is felt differently when typing on each switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Cherry MX Red switches offer distinct characteristics that influence the sound profile and typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning produces a clearer, sharper sound, particularly suited for RGB lighting, while the softer nylon top housing of the MX Red creates a deeper, fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, known for its sound-absorbing properties that contribute to a rounder sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the MX Red's 45 grams, making the Lightning switch slightly easier to trigger. The Lightning switch also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the KTT Lightning switch more comfortable for extended periods of typing, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Cherry MX Red switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. A shorter travel distance like the Lightning switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the MX Red switch might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, with the Lightning providing a quicker, more responsive feel and the MX Red offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 KTT Lightning linear switch has a distinctive clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving off a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch produces a deeper and thocky sound, offering a more robust and satisfying auditory experience. Whether you prefer the crisp and bright sound of the Lightning or the deeper tone of the MX Red, your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preference and setup.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Lightning linear switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience, with a light resistance and smooth key travel. This makes it a great option for those looking for a refined and sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, potentially offering noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience provided by the Lightning switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and Cherry MX Red linear switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a subtle and polished feel, the Lightning switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you enjoy a deeper thocky sound with a textured feel, the MX Red switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a reliable linear typing experience, and the decision between them will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider your needs and preferences as a typist or gamer. If you value speed and responsiveness, with a lighter feel and clacky sound profile, the KTT Lightning switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, deeper sound profile, and a more traditional typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming style.
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