Kailh Box White vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique experiences are the Kailh Box White and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon. The Box White switch is renowned for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying and distinct sound with every keystroke. The "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility create a truly immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a different sensation entirely. As a linear switch, it provides a buttery smooth typing experience characterized by a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. This lends the Sea Salt Lemon a sense of neutrality and mildness, resulting in a more subtle typing experience. While these general pointers can assist in your decision-making process, let's delve deeper to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon both feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual appeal of the switches. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Kailh Box White and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon employ nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can be appealing to those seeking a more mellow typing experience. Therefore, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar typing sound, creating a consistent auditory experience.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, each material will have a distinct impact on the overall sound and feel. Pressing down on the switch will primarily reveal the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Kailh Box White and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon share similar top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of their qualities across the switch may result in subtle differences in sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out forces, the Box White has a heavier force of 60 grams, compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Box White provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when pressing the keys all the way down. Overall, the Box White is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Sea Salt Lemon, offering a preference for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon's lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be more suitable. Both switches fall within the medium range, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box White. If you prefer a more traditional travel distance, the Sea Salt Lemon would be the better option as it falls within the range of 4.0mm. However, if you are someone who values faster response times and prefers a shorter travel distance, the Box White would be the preferable choice with its 3.6 mm travel distance. It is important to note that shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers, as they allow for quicker and more responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deep feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80.
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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback. Typing on this switch produces a sound that is often compared to stepping on autumn leaves. It has a crisp and clean sound profile, with a higher-pitched resonance. The tactile feedback is also accentuated, providing a satisfying sensation when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch represents a different experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, thanks to their progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the sound profile of the Sea Salt Lemon is described as low-pitched and bass-heavy, it maintains a neutral and moderate tone. The Sea Salt Lemon switch is considered mild, providing a gentle typing experience that can be enjoyed by most individuals. Overall, the Box White clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound and polished feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched sound and mild typing experience. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying experience, whether you prefer a loud and tactile feedback or a smoother and quieter typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys maximum audio feedback and desires a noticeable tactility when typing, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. With its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a satisfying and immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Box White has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be a great choice. Its progressive spring and dry-lube design offer a gentle and approachable typing experience. The Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
Ultimately, your decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize auditory feedback and a tactile typing experience, go for the Box White. If you prefer a smoother and more gentle typing experience with a quieter sound profile, opt for the Sea Salt Lemon. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences.
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