Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, a clear distinction can be made between the two based on their key characteristics. The Aliaz switch is renowned for its quiet operation and medium-heavy weight, making it ideal for environments like offices where noise can be an issue. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch stands out for its smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Aliaz offers a more pronounced typing feedback, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a gentle and neutral typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the switch housings also adds a level of stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetic-wise, switches with clear housing are more likely to be made of polycarbonate, making them ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing of the Gateron Aliaz is also made of polycarbonate, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the Sea Salt Lemon's bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches provide a unique typing experience. The split in housing materials of the two switches means that the qualities of each material are distinct in either the top or the bottom of the switch. When typing on the Gateron Aliaz, the impact of the bottom housing can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon's nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by offering a deeper and fuller sound profile that is especially noticeable during use.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing feel and sound. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that produce a sharp and crisp sound, but it is the difference in bottom housing material that sets them apart. The Gateron Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a stiffer and more resonant sound, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon's nylon bottom housing offers a softer and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a clearer, sharper sound from the Aliaz or a deeper, rounder sound from the Sea Salt Lemon, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is the heavier of the two. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches have their advantages, with the Aliaz offering a more tactile and pronounced typing experience, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a smoother and lighter keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This allows for consistent feedback and actuation regardless of which switch is chosen. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best suited for quiet environments with its muted sound profile. This switch provides a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches, making it ideal for office settings where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It has a neutral sound profile that can be suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Both switches offer unique acoustic qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without disturbing those around you.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and refined key travel. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing a comfortable and fluid typing feel. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. Its progressive spring and dry-lube design contribute to a buttery smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. While the Aliaz switch focuses on smoothness and refinement, the Sea Salt Lemon switch prioritizes a comfortable and gentle typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz switch excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with its muted sound and silky feel, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and mild feel, offering a buttery smooth typing experience that is comfortable for a wide range of users. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a heavier bottom out force that is tailored for quiet environments like the office, then the Gateron Aliaz switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Aliaz switches offer a substantial typing feel with a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback without the noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch would be ideal for you. The Sea Salt Lemons provide a mild typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a neutral feel, making them suitable for various preferences and environments. Ultimately, your choice between the Aliaz and Sea Salt Lemon switches will depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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