Cherry MX Red vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon are both popular choices among enthusiasts. The MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon by KTT is a representation of what a linear switch can be, with its progressive spring and dry-lube design providing a buttery smooth typing experience. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Sea Salt Lemon falls into the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences in terms of sound, feel, and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Cherry MX Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon housing materials lies in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cherry MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In comparison, the Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clear nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Cherry MX Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. While the bottom housing may have a stronger impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in top housing material, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent depth and richness in sound for both switches.
In conclusion, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. The nylon top housing of the MX Red provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sea Salt Lemon offers a sharper and crisper sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar level of sound quality between the two switches, with differences primarily noticeable in the typing experience and overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a softer, rounder sound or a sharper, more resonant sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light to press down. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sea Salt Lemon switch requires a heavier force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the MX Red, where the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience may opt for the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key activation and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This uniformity in travel distance ensures consistent typing experience regardless of the switch being used. While some linear switches may have varying travel distances, the Cherry MX Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon are on par with each other in this regard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound that is reminiscent of a solid "thud." On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches provide a pleasing auditory experience, with the MX Red offering a slightly deeper and richer sound compared to the Sea Salt Lemon.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured sensation, which adds a level of friction when pressed. This can be polarizing among users, as some may prefer the tactile feedback while others may find it less smooth. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. This makes the Sea Salt Lemon switch a versatile option for users looking for a comfortable typing experience without any extreme characteristics.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Red provides a heftier feel and deeper sound profile with its textured sensation, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a smoother and buttery typing experience with a more neutral and mild sound. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers will find similar results in terms of performance and quality.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile, the MX Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a buttery smooth typing experience, and a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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