Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both of which are linear switches. The Crystal switch offers a unique typing experience with its medium-light weight and elastic feel. It also produces a neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable and noise-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. With a low-pitched sound profile and a mild feel, this switch provides a pleasant and tranquil typing sensation. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, specifically their polycarbonate top housing, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness allows for a more clear and resonant sound to be produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in their material choices. The Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on the Crystal with its polycarbonate bottom housing will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's nylon housing. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, highlighting the importance of the choice in housing materials.
It's worthy to note that the top housing, regardless of the switch, plays a key role in the sound produced upon key release. Both the Crystal and the Sea Salt Lemon benefit from the polycarbonate top housing's ability to create a sharper and crisper sound when keys are let go. So, while the bottom housing may differ in material and sound profile between the two switches, the top housing's impact on the sound upon key release remains similar, thanks to the utilization of polycarbonate in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the initial force required to trigger a keystroke is identical. This implies that users can expect a similar level of sensitivity in both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Crystal switch is slightly heavier with a force of 55 grams, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon switch requires 53 grams of force for bottoming out. Despite this minor difference, both switches fall within the medium-light category in terms of overall force required.
Considering weight as an important factor, those inclined towards a lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may find these switches suitable. The identical actuation force ensures similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Crystal switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force may provide the desired stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preferences for force sensitivity and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on keys equipped with either of these switches will result in a similar tactile experience. Both the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique and distinctive chirpy sound profile. These switches have a slight squeak to them, setting them apart from other switches. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound when typing, the Crystal switches are a good option. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch provides a low-pitched sound experience. These switches have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a more relaxed and soothing typing sound. The Sea Salt Lemon switches also offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use them at home or work.
When it comes to the feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a polished and refined typing experience. These switches have a smooth and sleek finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Crystal switches are known for their elasticity and medium-light weight, providing an unique linear typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a mild typing experience. These switches provide a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The Sea Salt Lemon switches have a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, ensuring a buttery smooth typing experience.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Crystal and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switches have a chirpy sound profile with a polished feel, while the Sea Salt Lemon switches provide a low-pitched sound with a mild feel. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, whether you choose the Crystal or Sea Salt Lemon, you can expect a satisfying linear typing experience with similar results in terms of smoothness and moderate actuation force.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a unique and smooth linear typing experience, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force and elastic feel, these switches provide a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a mild and approachable feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is the way to go. Its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design ensure a smooth typing experience, while the low-pitched and neutral sound profile make it suitable for most purposes. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, but it depends on your personal preferences and typing style to determine which one is the perfect fit for you.
Mentioned in this article
