KTT Matcha vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Matcha is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. Its long pole stem ensures a clean bottom-out sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a satisfying feel and sound while typing. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. It offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a pleasant and mild typing experience. While both switches have their unique strengths, diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you decide which one is the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and KTT Sea Salt Lemon keyboards have some similarities and differences. Both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches. Therefore, both the Matcha and Sea Salt Lemon keyboards would provide similar sound profiles and visual aesthetics in terms of the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Matcha keyboard incorporates a polycarbonate material, while the Sea Salt Lemon keyboard utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha keyboard offers similar qualities as the top housing, creating a sharper and more resonant sound when bottoming out the keys. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Sea Salt Lemon keyboard elicits 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, the two keyboards would offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences when pressing down on the keys.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha and KTT Sea Salt Lemon keyboards share a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound profile and facilitates the use of RGB lighting. However, the top and bottom housings differ for each keyboard. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha keyboard provides a similar sound profile as the top housing, while the nylon bottom housing of the Sea Salt Lemon keyboard creates a different, deeper sound. Therefore, users can expect a variation in sound and tactile experience when using these keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon requires slightly more at 45 grams. Similarly, the Matcha has a light bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and value the ability to type for extended periods, the Matcha switch could be the ideal choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a slightly stronger push feel with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide a more substantial typing experience that some individuals may prefer for tasks that require a bit more force.
It's worth noting that both switches still fall within the realm of lighter forces, making them suitable for users who prioritize comfort and minimizing fatigue. While the Matcha is lighter overall, the differences between the two switches are not significant enough to drastically alter the typing experience. Therefore, those who enjoy the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Matcha can expect similar results with the Sea Salt Lemon, albeit with a slightly stronger feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience and overall feel of a keyboard. When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is intriguing to note that both switches share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar distance of travel, resulting in a consistent feel and response. Thus, it can be concluded that the travel distance of both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is equivalent.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a unique clacky sound when pressed. This produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Sea Salt Lemon is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha offers a stepped sensation, providing a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also described as snappy and accented, providing a responsive and lively typing experience without being overwhelming. Furthermore, it is considered feathery, meaning it requires little exertion and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience without pronounced characteristics.
Based on the available information, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The Matcha provides a comfortable and snappy tactility, accompanied by a clean bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a comfortable, snappy tactile feel, the KTT Matcha is a great choice. It offers a distinctly clean bottom-out sound and is described as clacky, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The Matcha switch is also known for its stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel, making it a versatile option for extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is worth considering. It has a low-pitched sound profile that is bass-heavy and mellow, as well as a mild feel that offers a gentle typing experience. The Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as having a neutral profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using it at home or work.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer unique characteristics and can enhance your typing experience. Consider factors such as bottom out force, feel, and sound to determine which switch aligns better with your preferences and typing style.
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