Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, finding the perfect switch can make all the difference in your typing experience. Today, we will be comparing and contrasting two popular linear switches: the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon. The MX Black, a linear switch by Cherry, is best known for its iconic smoothness and deep sound profile when typing. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff', these switches offer a classic feel that many users love. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch by KTT, stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience. With a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches provide a satisfyingly smooth feel. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild', the Sea Salt Lemon switches offer a different typing experience compared to the MX Black. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches differ in terms of sound profile and aesthetic properties. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it an excellent option if you plan to use RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches use nylon. This material brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the nylon top housing. The softer plastic of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Therefore, in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will provide a similar experience due to the common nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the MX Black's nylon top and bottom housings will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile overall, while the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings will result in a sharper and more resonant sound with the added benefit of translucency for RGB lighting purposes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in weight. The MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. Although the Cherry MX Black switch offers a heavier feel, the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a medium-light option that may be preferred by those who desire a lighter keystroke. Both switches have distinct weight characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback with a smooth linear actuation, allowing for precise and comfortable typing experiences. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either switch. Whether it is for gaming or everyday use, the 4 mm travel distance provided by both switches ensures that users will have a satisfying and responsive keystroke, making it easier to execute commands or type efficiently. Overall, both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer a reliable and consistent travel distance, providing a seamless and enjoyable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, 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, both the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches have a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they both produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, if you are looking for a low-pitched sound, both switches will provide similar results.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black switches are described as textured and stiff. This means that they have noticeable friction when pressed and require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. These switches fall into a safe, middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable feel for most users. If you prefer a textured and stiff typing experience, the Cherry MX Black switches would be the better option. However, if you prefer a milder and more gentle feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches would be more suitable.
Taking into account the available information, both the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches have their own unique qualities. The Cherry MX Black switches offer a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, making them a popular choice among those who enjoy a more tactile and bass-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience and have a mild feel, appealing to users who prefer a gentler typing feel. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the texture and stiffness of the Cherry MX Black switches set them apart from the mild and smooth characteristics of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches.
It's worth noting that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for an individual. Some users may prefer the familiar and distinctive qualities of the Cherry MX Black switches, while others may find the mild and buttery smooth typing experience of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches more appealing. Ultimately, it is important to try out different switches and consider factors such as sound, feel, and personal preference to determine the best fit for your typing needs. With the available information, you can expect similar low-pitched sound results from both switches, but the feel will differ depending on whether you prefer a textured and stiff typing experience or a milder and smoother feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a heavy switch with a deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black is the way to go. Its 80-gram bottom out force provides a satisfyingly hefty typing experience, and Cherry's Hyperglide tooling ensures a smooth and reliable operation. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is the perfect choice. With its 53-gram bottom out force and progressive spring, these switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience. Additionally, its dry-lube design guarantees optimal smoothness. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a mellower tone. Ultimately, your decision will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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