KTT Lightning vs. Durock Sea Glass

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the Durock Sea Glass. The Lightning switches are known for their "speed" capabilities, making them ideal for gamers who rely on split-second reactions. Typing on these switches offers a slick feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches from Durock stand out for their captivating pastel colors and proprietary material blend. Despite their dry and wispy typing experience, the Sea Glass switches remain smooth and easy to press. They also offer a unique hollow sound signature. In general, the Lightning switches prioritize speed, while the Sea Glass switches emphasize a frictionless and lightweight typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Lightning Linear

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$3.41 per 10

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Durock Sea Glass offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Lightning utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Sea Glass features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, contributing to a sound profile that is pleasant and bright, but not particularly sharp. Despite their differences, both housings are translucent, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Lightning employs a nylon material that lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Sea Glass showcases a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This blend offers a distinctly pleasant sound profile, leaning towards the brighter side without being overly sharp.

While the top and bottom housings differ for each switch, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the two, affecting different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide quality sound profiles, albeit with varying levels of sharpness and brightness. Moreover, the blend of materials in the Sea Glass's housing adds a unique character to its overall sound profile, setting it apart from the Lightning.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Sea Glass's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Sea Glass requires a heavier force of 62 grams, while the Lightning switch only needs 50 grams. This means that the Sea Glass provides a slightly stronger push feel during typing compared to the Lightning switch.

Considering weight, both switches offer options catered to individual preferences. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Lightning switch would be an excellent choice as it allows for longer typing sessions without inducing hand fatigue. On the other hand, for users who seek a more substantial and strong push feel while typing, the Sea Glass switch with its heavier bottom out force would be suitable. It is worth mentioning that in both scenarios, users will achieve similar results as the force required for actuation remains relatively close between the two switches. Thus, the decision between these switches ultimately comes down to a personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm while the Sea Glass has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Generally, with a travel distance of 4.0 mm being the most traditional and 3.0 mm being the most shallow, these two switches fall on the shorter side of the spectrum. These shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value quicker response times. Opting for the Lightning switch with its 3 mm travel distance would provide a more responsive typing experience. However, for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Sea Glass switch with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance may be more satisfying. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience one is looking for.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning switch offers a clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Durock Sea Glass switch is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Based on the available information, it is not possible to compare the subjective qualities of the sound between these two switches.

In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch provides a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. It offers a polished experience with smooth and refined key travel due to materials used and potential factory lubing. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch boasts a frictionless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Sea Glass switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These qualities make it comfortable for gaming, school, or work. Comparing the two, the Lightning switch focuses on providing a polished and subtle feel, while the Sea Glass switch emphasizes a frictionless and gentle typing experience.

Considering all the available information, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its approachable "speed" qualities, providing a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile. It is suitable for situations where milliseconds can determine success or failure. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch stands out for its captivating pastel colors and distinctive dry, wispy, and airy typing experience. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, the Sea Glass switch feels weightless and possesses a unique hollow sound signature. While a direct comparison of sound qualities between the two switches is not possible based on the information provided, it is likely that the Lightning switch will offer a similar typing experience in terms of both sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and aesthetic.

Conclusion

In closing, both the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lightning switch is ideal for those seeking a "speed" switch, perfect for situations where milliseconds matter and a slick, clacky typing experience is desired. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series from Durock offers a captivating selection of pastel colors and a distinct dry, wispiness, and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a uniquely hollow sound signature. Additionally, the Sea Glass switches provide a weightlessness that defies expectations despite their 62g bottom-out force. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetic appeal.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

Learn more