Outemu Purple vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon are two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Purple switch is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying bump feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is a linear switch known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Purple switch may appeal to those who prefer a tactile response, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is favored by those who enjoy a buttery smooth 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
50g
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
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
The Outemu Purple and the 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 ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion. The similarity in top housing material between the two switches suggests that they will yield similar sound profiles when keys are pressed and released, emphasizing clarity and resonance in the typing experience.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Purple boasts a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed. This distinction in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience, offering users a choice between a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound profile with nylon depending on personal preferences.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Purple provides a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound profile, catering to users who appreciate a variety of auditory experiences while typing. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon's consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housing offers a more uniform sound profile throughout the typing process. Whether one prefers a distinct difference in sound between pressing and releasing keys or a more consistent typing experience, both switches provide options for users seeking specific sound characteristics in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Salt Lemon is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Purple is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. Although the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unknown, the Sea Salt Lemon has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing feel, the Purple switch provides a stronger push, resulting in a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to individuals with varying preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they both provide a similar keypress experience in terms of travel distance. When comparing the two switches, their travel distance remains consistent, offering users a consistent typing experience. The travel distance of these switches provides a comfortable keypress depth, allowing for precise and efficient typing. Overall, both switches offer a similar travel distance, providing typists with a reliable and consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is known for a subjective quality that is not specified. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched nature of the Sea Salt Lemon switch likely provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the neutral profile indicates a moderate actuation force and sound level suitable for various typing preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a defined subjective quality provided. Conversely, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as having a mild feel. A mild switch typically offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With the Sea Salt Lemon switches, the sound and feel are approachable to most users, as they fall into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactility.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with unknown sound and feel qualities, the Outemu Purple may be a suitable option to explore. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a mild typing feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches can provide a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique qualities that may enhance your overall typing experience, so consider your personal preferences before making a decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you value a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Purple could be the better option. Keep in mind the sound profile and feel of each switch as well, as they can also impact your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
