KTT Phalaenopsis vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Phalaenopsis and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offer distinct options for different typing preferences. The Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, is known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. With its satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch, exemplifies the smoothness and fluidity that a linear switch can provide. Its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design result in a buttery typing experience. While these general points give an overview of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Phalaenopsis and KTT Sea Salt Lemon share similarities in their housing materials, as both feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, whether you opt for the Phalaenopsis or the Sea Salt Lemon, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the qualities it brings to the top housing. This means that when you press down on a key, you will experience the impact and sound influenced by the polycarbonate bottom housing. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a slightly duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a deeper typing sound, the Sea Salt Lemon would be the better choice.
In summary, both the KTT Phalaenopsis and KTT Sea Salt Lemon employ polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Phalaenopsis using polycarbonate and the Sea Salt Lemon using nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing accentuates the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller typing sound. Choose the Phalaenopsis for a consistent sound experience or opt for the Sea Salt Lemon if you prefer a slightly softer and rounder sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Phalaenopsis is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Phalaenopsis would be the ideal choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This lighter weight can be particularly beneficial for individuals who need to type for extended periods, whether for work or long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a slightly stronger push feel, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Although the difference in forces is relatively small, it can still make a noticeable impact on the overall typing feel.
In terms of similarities, both switches offer a similar mechanism where actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke, and bottom out force measures the pressure needed to fully press down on the switch. While the Phalaenopsis is lighter and the Sea Salt Lemon is slightly heavier, both switches provide reliable tactile feedback and smooth operation. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its bassy and thocky qualities. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched and neutral sound. It produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making it suitable for most purposes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as stepped. This means that it has a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. These switches provide a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches, where the whole keystroke is a big bump. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as mild. It offers a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most users, as they fall in a safe, middle-ground zone.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a delightful typing experience with its light actuation force of 37g, satisfying tactile bump of 50g, and stepped feel. The sound profile of the Phalaenopsis is described as bassy and thocky, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with its progressive spring and dry-lube design. It has a low-pitched and neutral sound, making it suitable for various purposes. While the two switches offer different qualities, both can provide enjoyable and comfortable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize effortless and fatigue-free typing with a discernible tactile bump, then the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is the way to go. With its light actuation force of 50 grams, this switch offers a delightful typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. The Phalaenopsis switch is also known for its bassy and thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, its stepped feel provides a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience and a moderate sound profile, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a slightly firmer typing feel compared to the Phalaenopsis. Its low-pitched sound profile provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while its mild feel offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch depends on your preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch and select the one that aligns with your preferences. Whether you prioritize effortless typing with a discernible tactile bump or a buttery smooth typing experience with a moderate sound profile, both switches have unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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