Outemu Tom vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and the KTT Strawberry stand out as popular options among enthusiasts. The Tom switch is best known for its unique characteristics, categorized as a tactile switch. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is beloved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, falling into the category of a linear switch. Those looking for a switch that provides tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Tom, while those seeking a smooth and frictionless typing experience may prefer the Strawberry. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Tom and the KTT Strawberry both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Tom has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Tom and the Strawberry benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in their top housings for clear visibility and RGB lighting effects. While the Tom's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound profile, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the sharper and crisper sound profile of its top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials offers users a different typing experience based on the impact on sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The Tom may provide a more rounded and muffled bottom-out sound, while the Strawberry delivers a clearer bottom-out sound due to its stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing.
While both the Outemu Tom and the KTT Strawberry utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper and crisper sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Tom's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing supports the sharpness of its top housing. This variation in bottom housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch when typing. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound profiles for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Tom switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Strawberry switch's lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Tom switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke, providing a more tactile feedback. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Strawberry switch is heavier with 62 grams compared to the Tom switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. This indicates that while typing on the Tom switch may feel more substantial due to its higher actuation force, the Strawberry switch may offer a more satisfying resistance when fully pressing down. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with the lighter Tom switch being more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier Strawberry switch may appeal to those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Tom offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Tom for its faster actuation, while those who enjoy a more satisfying keystroke may lean towards the Strawberry with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness. If you're looking for a quicker, snappier typing experience, the Outemu Tom may be the better option, but if you prefer a more deliberate key press, the KTT Strawberry could be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom comes in at $3.10, 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it is important to consider the overall setup when assessing sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a specific description available, but the KTT Strawberry linear switch is renowned for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. This means that the Strawberry switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a fluid key travel. The polished finish of the switch also contributes to a sleek and refined typing sensation.
Overall, while the Outemu Tom and KTT Strawberry switches may differ in sound and feel qualities, it is important to note that both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and are looking for a tactile switch, the Tom may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and enjoy a smooth and polished feel, the KTT Strawberry switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of None grams and are looking for a switch with a particular feature None, then the Tom switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, enjoy the smooth actuation and comfortable feel of the Strawberry, and prefer a low-pitched sound with a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, then the KTT Strawberry linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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