Outemu Red vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is important to consider their unique characteristics. The red switch is best known for its smooth performance and is categorized as linear. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switches are praised for their buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to the progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. They are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon may be preferred for those seeking a smoother feel while typing. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. Both switches will provide a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon have different bottom housing materials, with the Red featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Sea Salt Lemon also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller typing experience for the user.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Red and KTT Sea Salt Lemon have different material compositions, the overall typing experience will be influenced by both components. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon for a well-rounded sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that the Red switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 45 grams, making the Red switch slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Red switch requires 62 grams of force, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch only requires 53 grams, indicating that the Red switch is also heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, with the Red switch leaning towards the heavier side and the Sea Salt Lemon switch being slightly lighter. Typists who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Red switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out force, while those who prefer a lighter typing feel might prefer the Sea Salt Lemon switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results and typing experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red 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 Red linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. 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 while the Sea Salt Lemon switch may produce a slightly deeper and more mellow tone compared to the Red switch, both switches offer a moderate sound profile that should suit most preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also depend on external factors such as the keyboard frame and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch does not have a specific description provided, but it is commonly known for its smooth linear feel that lacks tactile feedback. The KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, on the other hand, is characterized as offering a mild typing experience. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a gentler and more approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Sea Salt Lemon switch may appeal more to those who prefer a softer touch while typing.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Red linear switch and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a smooth typing experience that is well-suited for a variety of users. Whether you prefer a quieter operation like the Red switch or a slightly deeper tone like the Sea Salt Lemon switch, both options provide a neutral sound profile that should be versatile enough for most typing needs. Additionally, the mild and gentle feel of the Sea Salt Lemon switch complements its buttery smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for those who value comfort and ease of use in their mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options that are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a more traditional linear switch experience, the Outemu Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force and are seeking a smooth and buttery typing experience with a unique design, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch would be more suitable for you. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a switch, whether it's the sound, feel, or overall typing experience, and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it's up to you to determine which one aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
