Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that provide distinct typing experiences are the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out with its gentle tactility, offering a refreshing alternative to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches delivers an angelic tactility accompanied by a soothing jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon by KTT showcases the potential of a linear switch. Its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design create a buttery smooth typing experience that is truly satisfying. While the Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Sea Salt Lemon is classified as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild'. Each switch has its own unique traits and advantages, depending on personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

The Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.

However, the Light Tactile and the Sea Salt Lemon differ in terms of their bottom housings. The Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon also incorporates the use of nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience due to their common use of nylon in the bottom housing.

It is important to note that even though the top and bottom housings may differ, each housing material brings distinct qualities to the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing, such as the material used, will have a more noticeable impact on the sound and feel of the bottom-out. In contrast, the top housing will contribute more to the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Light Tactile and the Sea Salt Lemon may have variations in their housing materials, these differences primarily affect the bottom-out and release sounds and sensations of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, some key differences become apparent. The Light Tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 52 grams, compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's actuation force of 45 grams, making the Light Tactile switch slightly heavier in terms of initial keystroke sensitivity. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Light Tactile switch requires a higher force of 67 grams, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon only requires 53 grams. This indicates that the Light Tactile switch offers a more substantial typing experience in terms of resistance throughout the entire press, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a lighter and potentially more effortless typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Light Tactile can be considered on the medium-heavy side, while the Sea Salt Lemon is on the medium-light end. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods may gravitate towards the Sea Salt Lemon, while those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback may lean towards the Light Tactile.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer the same travel distance, resulting in a similar experience when pressing down on a key. Their travel distances are equal, providing users with a consistent feel and feedback when using these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used at home or work environments. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Light Tactile, the Sea Salt Lemon also has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, it offers a different sound experience due to its low-pitched nature. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

As for the feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It offers a more approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Light Tactile switches can be described as safe and middle-ground. Additionally, these switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The smooth and refined surface, combined with possible factory lubing, reduces friction and enables smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch also provides a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle feel that is suitable for most users. However, specific information on the finish or lubing of the Sea Salt Lemon switches is unknown.

Considering all the available information, the Durock Light Tactile switch is best known for its gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it suitable for various users. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch stands out as a representation of what a linear switch can be. Its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design contribute to a buttery smooth typing experience. In terms of sound, the Light Tactile has a neutral sound profile, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched tone. Both switches have a mild feel, but the Light Tactile offers a polished finish for reduced friction. Overall, while the two switches differ in some aspects, they can provide similar results in terms of sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you're looking for a switch with a gentle tactile experience and a unique sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile would be a great choice for you. Its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound make for a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is the way to go. Its buttery smooth typing experience, progressive spring, and dry-lube design provide a satisfying feel. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the Light Tactile and the Sea Salt Lemon boils down to your preference for tactility and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more