TTC Gold Pink vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon are two options worth considering. The Gold Pink is renowned for its incredibly light actuation force of 37g, making it one of the lightest switches available. Ideal for those who prioritize speed and ease while typing, these switches are perfect for both rapid typing and gaming. The Gold Pinks also offer a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon represents a different take on linear switches. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience. They are characterized by their low-pitched, neutral, and mild sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and KTT Sea Salt Lemon both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will offer a clear and resonant sound, making them suitable for users who prioritize a precise and vibrant typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Pink and Sea Salt Lemon employ nylon, offering a different sound profile compared to their top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that while typing on switches with nylon bottom housing, users can expect a duller and rounder sound. As such, both switches will provide a more immersive auditory experience, perfect for those who prefer a softer and more muted typing sound.
It's worth noting that the division of housing materials in a switch affects the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more to the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gold Pink and Sea Salt Lemon share similarities in their respective top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials will result in nuanced differences in the overall typing sound and tactile feedback. Nonetheless, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches, with an emphasis on clarity and depth of sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The Gold Pink exhibits a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Gold Pink requires a force of 45 grams, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon requires a slightly higher force of 53 grams. These differences in force can have a significant impact on the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Gold Pink more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Sea Salt Lemon's heavier forces. Despite the differences, it is important to note that both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options tailored to their preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the exact same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance you feel when you press down on a key. No matter which switch you choose, you can expect the keys to travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches offer the same level of tactile feedback and response, ensuring a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Pink switches are best described as clacky. They offer a satisfying level of feedback, with a moderate pitch that is not too high-pitched or bass-heavy. The Sea Salt Lemon switches, on the other hand, have a low-pitched sound profile. This means they are more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. The Sea Salt Lemon switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Keep in mind that the sound produced by switches can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide pleasant and enjoyable typing experiences, with the Gold Pinks delivering a clacky sound and the Sea Salt Lemons offering a low-pitched and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink switches have a variety of descriptors. They are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. The keystrokes with these switches are seamless, effortless, and uniform. The Gold Pinks are also categorized as mild, meaning they offer a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. They have a feathery feel as well, requiring little exertion from the fingers due to their light actuation force. This makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions in gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the Gold Pink switches have a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel without being too feather-light. They are also polished, resulting in a refined finish and a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switches are described as mild in terms of feel. This means they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Sea Salt Lemons have a middle-ground feel that should be approachable to most users, providing a comfortable and consistent typing sensation.
Considering the available information, the TTC Gold Pink and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches have different subjective qualities. The Gold Pinks are known for their lightness, clacky sound, buttery and feathery feel, and a polished finish. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemons offer a low-pitched and neutral sound, along with a mild and comfortable typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and usage scenarios, providing options for those who prefer a lively and feedback-rich typing experience (Gold Pink) or a smooth and gentle typing experience (Sea Salt Lemon). Keep in mind that the final typing experience may also depend on other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience with a fast and effortless feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, making them one of the lightest options available. They are perfect for rapid typing or gaming, offering a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. Additionally, the Gold Pinks have a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, providing a seamless and comfortable typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be your best choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches fall in the medium-light category. The Sea Salt Lemons have a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Their progressive spring and dry-lube design contribute to their smoothness, allowing for a pleasant and effortless typing feel.
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink switch has a clacky sound, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as low-pitched, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Gold Pink and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light and lively typing experience, the Gold Pink is the way to go. However, if a buttery smooth typing feel is more important to you, the Sea Salt Lemon will be your top choice. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and desired typing experience when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
