Gateron Mini i vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Gateron Mini i is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a satisfying feedback with each keystroke while maintaining a fairly muted sound profile. It is a great option for those looking for a lightweight switch that is ideal for comfortable typing in a professional setting. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offers a buttery smooth typing experience with its progressive spring and dry-lube design. It is a linear switch that is known for its low-pitched sound and mild feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, we can see that they both share a similar bottom housing material in nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. However, the top housing of the Mini i is made of nylon, while the Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing. The Mini i's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, making it a popular choice for aesthetic purposes.
While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference lies in their top housing materials. The Mini i's nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile. This demonstrates how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Sea Salt Lemon allows for RGB lighting, adding an extra layer of customization for users looking to enhance the visual appeal of their keyboards.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the sound profile of switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Mini i and the Sea Salt Lemon, their respective housing materials result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with a nylon top housing like the Mini i, or a sharper, crisper sound with a polycarbonate top housing like the Sea Salt Lemon, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that enhance the typing feel for users.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon needs 53 grams. This makes the Mini i lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Sea Salt Lemon. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mini i, while individuals who enjoy a slightly heavier feel may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon. Both switches provide a unique typing experience depending on individual preferences, with the Mini i offering a lighter touch and the Sea Salt Lemon providing a slightly more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mini i. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who are more sensitive to keypress feedback, it can make a noticeable difference in typing or gaming experience. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Sea Salt Lemon leaning towards the traditional side and the Mini i catering to those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times. In terms of typing feel, the Mini i may provide a softer touch due to its shorter travel distance, while the Sea Salt Lemon may offer a more pronounced keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, 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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral profile that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant auditory feedback without being too loud or distracting, giving users the option to enjoy their typing without disturbing others.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, showcasing a range of qualities that enhance the typing experience. These switches offer a gentle resistance, responsiveness, and overall comfort, making long typing sessions more enjoyable and less taxing on the fingers. Similarly, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize user comfort and provide a smooth typing sensation that users can appreciate.
Considering the available information, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch focus on delivering an enjoyable typing experience without compromising on performance. While they may differ slightly in sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of comfort, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction when using either of these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, your decision will ultimately depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gentle tactile feedback, the Mini i would be a suitable choice, especially for office environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smooth linear feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon switch would be a great option for a buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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