Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offer unique and contrasting experiences for users. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with a distinct sound profile, while the Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience. The Dustproof Purple may appeal to those who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a switch, while the Sea Salt Lemon's buttery smooth feel may be preferred by those seeking a quieter and more seamless 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, we find that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. This similarity suggests that users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on both switches, with the polycarbonate material contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile in both cases.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Dustproof Purple utilizes a nylon material that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Sea Salt Lemon also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the deeper and fuller sound experience associated with this classic switch housing material. This shared feature highlights the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
Overall, while both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharper sound profile, they differ in their bottom housings with the Dustproof Purple using nylon for a deeper sound and the Sea Salt Lemon following suit. This indicates that users can expect nuanced differences in sound and feel between the two switches, with the choice of housing materials playing a key role in shaping the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, each switch offers a unique combination of housing materials to cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Purple is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Dustproof Purple offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer a different typing experience, catering to users who prefer different levels of force in their key presses. Whether you prefer a heavier or lighter touch, you can achieve similar results with both switches by adjusting your typing technique to accommodate the specific force requirements of each switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar experience in terms of key press depth. While some switches may vary in their travel distances, these two switches offer a consistent feel when typing. So, whether you opt for the Dustproof Purple or the Sea Salt Lemon, you can expect a similar travel distance and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Dustproof Purple switch and the Sea Salt Lemon switch offer different experiences. The Dustproof Purple switch's sound profile is not well-defined, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound. The low-pitched tone of the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience, suitable for various settings. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both switches offer distinct tactile experiences. The Dustproof Purple switch's tactile feel is unspecified, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a mild typing experience. The mild characteristics of the Sea Salt Lemon switch offer a gentle and approachable feel, placing it in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and tactility.
In conclusion, while the Dustproof Purple and Sea Salt Lemon switches differ in sound and feel, each provides its unique typing experience. If you are looking for a clicky switch with an undefined sound and an unspecified feel, the Dustproof Purple may be the right choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched, neutral sound and a mild typing feel, the Sea Salt Lemon switch could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy clicky switch with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision would depend on whether you prioritize a clicky switch for a more pronounced typing feel or a linear switch for a smoother and more gentle typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider your typing style and preferences before making a choice.
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