Outemu Silver vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silver and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer different qualities to consider. The silver switch is best known for its undefined characteristic, while the sea salt lemon is praised for its smooth typing experience with a progressive spring and dry-lube design by KTT. The silver switch falls under the category of undefined qualities, while the sea salt lemon is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Choosing the silver switch may appeal to those seeking a unique typing experience, while the sea salt lemon switch is ideal for those who value smooth and buttery keystrokes. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silver 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 ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
Both switches also utilize nylon bottom housings, which contribute to 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 that enhances the overall typing experience. This housing material is a classic choice for switch components and provides a unique touch to the tactile feedback of both the Outemu Silver and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches.
While the top and bottom housings may differ in material for these switches, the qualities of each material are distributed accordingly. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials ultimately creates a well-rounded typing experience that combines the best aspects of polycarbonate and nylon for the Outemu Silver and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver switch requires 65 grams, making it heavier compared to the Sea Salt Lemon switch, which only requires 53 grams. The Silver switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a lighter feel that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. This ensures consistent typing experiences for users who prefer either switch. The similarities in travel distance between the Outemu Silver and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches make them reliable options for individuals seeking a particular typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silver 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 Silver switch does not have any specific characteristics attributed to it, making it a bit of a wildcard in terms of noise profile. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is known for producing a low-pitched and neutral sound. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch will offer a mellower and bass-heavy tone compared to other switches, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a distinct feel associated with it. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. This mild feel makes the Sea Salt Lemon switch appealing to a wide range of users, as it strikes a balance between different characteristics without leaning too heavily in any particular direction. The typing experience with the Sea Salt Lemon switch is gentle and approachable, suitable for users of all levels and preferences.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch lacks specific descriptors in these areas, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is praised for its low-pitched and neutral sound, as well as its mild typing experience. If you are looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon switch might be the better option for you. Consider your personal preferences and typing environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best possible experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silver and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout features, the Outemu Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are seeking a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your individual typing preferences and what characteristics matter most to you. Happy typing!
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