Outemu Black vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Black and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its consistency. It is categorized as smooth. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is also a linear switch, but it stands out for its smooth typing experience thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design by KTT. These sea salt lemons are a lovely representation of what a linear switch can be, with characteristics such as being low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Each switch has its own unique features and benefits, so it ultimately depends on personal preference. 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
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 Outemu Black and KTT Sea Salt Lemon both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is especially ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for better illumination. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to create a rounder tone. While both switches share similar qualities in terms of housing materials, the different top and bottom housings may impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of typing experience, the nylon bottom housing of both switches will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing will influence the sound when a key is released, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience that blends the qualities of stiffness and softness for a well-rounded sound profile.
While the Outemu Black and KTT Sea Salt Lemon share similarities in their housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switches may result in different typing experiences. The top housing, made of polycarbonate, creates a more resonant and clear sound profile, particularly ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller tone when pressing down on a key. By combining these materials in different ways, keyboard enthusiasts can customize their typing experience to suit their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch differ significantly. The Outemu Black has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch would be lighter to type with than the Outemu Black, providing a smoother and less strenuous typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences, with the Outemu Black being the heavier option and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users can expect a consistent travel distance, resulting in a similar typing experience. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Outemu Black or the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch, you can enjoy a smooth and linear keystroke with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10, 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch has a sound profile that is unspecified, making it difficult to compare directly to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch. However, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound. The low-pitched tones offer a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience, which can be pleasant for many users. The neutral sound profile means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Sea Salt Lemon switch having a bit more specific characteristics.
In terms of feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch are not provided, making it challenging to directly compare to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch. The Sea Salt Lemon switch, on the other hand, is described as having a mild feel. A mild switch typically offers a gentle typing experience with a safe and approachable middle-ground feel. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch would be comfortable for most users, striking a balance between different preferences. While the exact feel of the Outemu Black switch remains unknown, it's safe to assume that both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with the Sea Salt Lemon switch leaning towards a mild and gentle feel.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer favorable subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While specific details on the Black switch are lacking, both switches provide smooth typing experiences with the Sea Salt Lemon switch showcasing low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics along with a mild and gentle feel. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, you should consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features, then the Outemu Black might be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a smoother, buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure that you select the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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