Bsun Jade Rosales vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon stand out as fantastic linear options, each offering unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The Bsun Jade Rosales switches are the result of extensive refinement from XY Studio, featuring custom housings, stems, and meticulous lubrication techniques that culminate in an exceptionally smooth typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches embody a wonderfully balanced profile with their progressive spring design and innovative dry-lube technology, resulting in a buttery smooth feel that's particularly appealing to those who favor a low-pitched, neutral typing experience. While both switches provide seamless keystrokes, the Jade Rosales leans towards a more specialized feel thanks to its tailored construction, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon offers versatility and a mild tactile sensation that caters to a broad audience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon feature a shared top housing material made of polycarbonate, which plays a critical role in shaping the sound profile of both switches. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is advantageous for users who seek clear auditory feedback from their keyboard. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of these switches, especially when RGB lighting is incorporated, as it allows light to pass through effectively, creating a vibrant illumination experience. Since both switches utilize the same top housing material, we can expect similar sound dynamics and visual effects when these switches are employed in a keyboard setup.
In contrast to their matching top housings, the Jade Rosales and Sea Salt Lemon differ significantly in their bottom housing materials. The Jade Rosales utilizes a proprietary Custom Milky Material, which is designed to complement the clarity of the polycarbonate top, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference means that while the top housings will produce a bright and resonant sound, the bottom housings will dictate a contrasting tonal quality. Thus, the auditory experience when typing on the Sea Salt Lemon may evoke a rounder and more muted character compared to the Jade Rosales, offering users distinct acoustic options based on their preference.
The distinctive combination of top and bottom housing materials in both switches presents unique auditory and tactile experiences when pressed. With the Jade Rosales, users can expect a pronounced high-end sound due to the polycarbonate top paired with a potentially softer hitting experience from the milky material in the bottom housing. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a fuller sound signature that emphasizes depth, influenced by its nylon bottom housing. Therefore, while both switches share a commonality in their top housing that enhances high-frequency sounds and RGB light diffusion, the differences in their bottom materials generate varied sound profiles and tactile feedback, appealing to different user preferences in keyboard feel and sound.
Weight
The Bsun Jade Rosales and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches have identical specifications when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces, both requiring 45 grams for actuation and 53 grams for bottoming out. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches, with a medium-light force that makes them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Those who prefer lighter switches may appreciate this characteristic, as it allows for less fatigue during extended use. Conversely, if a user leans towards a more substantial feel, they may find these switches somewhat lacking in that regard, but the consistent force profiles provide a predictable and balanced performance for both options. Since both switches weigh the same, neither is distinctly lighter or heavier than the other, ensuring that users will experience similar tactile feedback and pressure levels when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we find that the Jade Rosales has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sea Salt Lemon measures 4 mm. This makes the Jade Rosales the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that some gamers may prefer for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, resulting in a more pronounced tactile experience. Thus, users who prioritize speed and responsiveness might opt for the Jade Rosales, while those who appreciate a deeper actuation might lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Jade Rosales switches is currently unknown, leaving intrigue around their acoustic qualities. However, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches are characterized by their low-pitched tone, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. Additionally, they have a neutral sound profile, resulting in moderate actuation force and sound output that caters to a wide audience, making them suitable for both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. This means that while the Jade Rosales switches’ sound remains a mystery, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a well-rounded acoustic environment perfect for various settings, whether at home or in the office.
When it comes to feel, the Jade Rosales switches are also unacquainted, making direct comparisons challenging. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches are praised for their mild characteristic, delivering a gentle typing experience that balances performance without overwhelming the user. Their qualities fall within a comfortable mid-ground range, making the typing experience approachable and friendly to most users. If the Jade Rosales also boasts a smooth feel, it could provide a similarly enjoyable typing experience, albeit it’s not explicitly stated.
Overall, while the Bsun Jade Rosales and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches showcase some mysteries in their acoustic and tactile characteristics, the Sea Salt Lemon does provide a clear representation of a smooth linear switch. Should the Jade Rosales also deliver on sound and feel, typists could expect a comparable user experience, highlighted by smoothness and an enjoyable typing journey. Nevertheless, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon stands as a reliable option for those seeking an engaging linear switch experience with known qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth typing experience and appreciate a switch that has undergone meticulous refinement, then the Bsun Jade Rosales may be the right fit for you. Its custom housing and lubrication techniques promise a premium typing sensation, ideal for users who value performance and subtlety in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a mellow and neutral sound profile, along with a mild feel that accommodates diverse typing styles, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon would be a solid choice. Its progressive spring design offers a buttery smooth experience that's approachable for both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. In essence, while both switches share a similar bottom-out force and medium-light feel, your decision should hinge on whether you seek a finely tuned, luxurious experience with the Jade Rosales or a more versatile, gentle typing environment offered by the Sea Salt Lemon.
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