Outemu Green vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, you may find yourself torn between the satisfying feedback of the Green and the smoothness of the Sea Salt Lemon. The Green is best known for its loud click sound and tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Green is categorized as belonging to a certain group, the Sea Salt Lemon falls into a different category with its low-pitched, neutral, and mild attributes. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between these two switches; 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
80g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Green and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
While both switches share similar top and bottom housing materials, the way these materials are utilized results in distinct typing experiences. The impact of the bottom housing in these switches is felt more prominently during the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. The nylon bottom housing creates a deeper, fuller sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to the sharp, crisp sound produced when a key is let go.
In essence, the housing materials of the Outemu Green and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. Both switches leverage the properties of polycarbonate and nylon to create distinct sound profiles. While the polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharp and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique and satisfying typing experience that showcases the versatility of different housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we can see a noticeable difference in weight. The Green switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a higher bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a more comfortable option for extended typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Outemu Green switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance, resulting in a similar typing experience. This means that whether you choose the Outemu Green clicky switch or the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, you can expect consistent key press feedback and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Green 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 Green clicky switch is known for its loud and tactile clicking noise, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, which can suit a variety of typing preferences. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other components such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Green switch is known to provide a tactile bump and a firm typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is praised for its mild and gentle feel, offering a smoother and more subtle typing experience. The Sea Salt Lemon switches are designed with a progressive spring and dry-lube technology, resulting in a buttery smooth typing sensation that many users find appealing. These qualities make the Sea Salt Lemon switches a comfortable and approachable choice for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Green switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon switches offer a smoother and more mellow feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches are reputable choices in the mechanical keyboard community, and users can expect reliable performance from either option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who prefers a heavy bottom out force and enjoys the clicky sound that the Outemu Green switch provides, then that would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a smooth and buttery typing experience like the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, then that would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and enjoy the enhanced typing experience it brings to your setup.
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