KTT Lightning vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning 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 popular options to consider are the KTT Lightning and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon. The Lightning switches are renowned for their speed, making them a perfect choice for gamers where milliseconds can determine the outcome of a match. Typing on the Lightning switches provides a slick feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switches showcase the beauty of a linear switch. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience. The Sea Salt Lemon switches are often described as having a low-pitched, neutral, and mild sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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 KTT Lightning and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon share similar housing materials, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who enjoy customizable lighting options. Therefore, if you are seeking a similar sound experience and plan to incorporate RGB lighting, both switches will provide the desired results.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Lightning and the Sea Salt Lemon utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material brings depth and fullness to the typing experience, eliciting a deeper and richer sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether you are using the Lightning or the Sea Salt Lemon, the nylon bottom housing will contribute to the overall typing experience, enhancing the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the Lightning and the Sea Salt Lemon differ, it is important to note that these materials provide distinct qualities to the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. This distinction allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the sound profile, ensuring that both the pressing and releasing of keys provide a satisfying auditory feedback regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are notable differences. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which indicates a lighter touch required for triggering keystrokes and pressing down fully. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison.
Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Lightning switch would be the preferred choice as it requires a lighter force for actuation and bottoming out. This lighter touch can be beneficial for longer typing sessions, such as in a work environment or during extended gaming sessions.
However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy the sensation of a stronger push, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch would be a better option. Its slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force provide a more tactile and satisfying experience for those seeking a heavier and more pronounced typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Lightning switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a medium-light touch with slightly higher forces. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4 mm travel distance of the Sea Salt Lemon switch is the more traditional option, providing a deeper feeling when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the Lightning switch's 3 mm travel distance is shorter, making it favorable for gamers who prioritize fast response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and enhanced responsiveness. However, some individuals may find the abruptness of shorter travel distances to be less comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding the desired depth or speed of key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, 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 KTT Lightning switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics. When pressed, the Lightning switch produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. This sharp and snappy sound profile is ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as low-pitched and neutral. It offers a more mellow tone with a bass-heavy sound. The Sea Salt Lemon's moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile make it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you intend to use it at home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switch is subtle and polished. With a gentle resistance, this switch provides a light typing feel without being overly sensitive. The Lightning switch's smooth and refined finish, either due to its materials or factory lubing, results in a sleek and frictionless typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild typing experience. Its characteristics are more gentle and approachable, making it suitable for most users. The Sea Salt Lemon switch strikes a safe middle-ground, providing a comfortable balance between sound and feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch excels in its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy typing experience. Its subtle and polished feel further enhances the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Its mild feel ensures a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboarding experience, providing you with satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values speed and responsiveness in your typing, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, which makes them light and easy to actuate. The Lightning switches are known for their slick type feel and clacky sound profile, which can add some excitement to your typing experience. Additionally, if you participate in gaming where milliseconds can make a difference, these switches are perfect for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more buttery typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be the ideal choice. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches fall into the medium-light category. The Sea Salt Lemon switches have a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, offering a lovely representation of a linear switch. The typing experience with these switches is described as buttery smooth, and the sound profile is low-pitched, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Lightning and Sea Salt Lemon switches comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If speed and responsiveness are your top priorities, the Lightning switches would be a great fit. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience and prefer a more mellow sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon switches would be a better choice for you. Consider your typing style, usage (gaming or regular typing), and the overall feel you desire when making your decision.
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