Kailh Plum vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, but can't decide between a tactile or linear switch, the Kailh Plum and KTT Sea Salt Lemon are two options worth considering. The Plum offers a unique tactile experience, with its hefty feel and minimal tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum proves that weightiness and tactility don't always go hand in hand. Additionally, the Plum boasts a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon showcases the potential of a linear switch. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience. While the Plum falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Stepped', the Sea Salt Lemon is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild'. Both switches have their own distinct qualities, giving you options based on your preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches share a significant similarity as both switches utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material enhances the sound profile of the switches by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it aesthetically pleasing for those who prefer illuminated keyboards.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Kailh Plum employs nylon while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon also utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic gives switches with nylon bottom housings a duller and rounder sound.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, such as the Kailh Plum and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when the key is released.
Overall, the Kailh Plum and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer similar results in terms of sound profile due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. However, they may exhibit slight differences in the depth and roundness of sound due to the variation in their nylon bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preferences regarding the overall sound experience and the aesthetic appeal of the housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are noticeable differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Sea Salt Lemon switch requires a relatively lighter force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, whereas the exact actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Plum switch requires a heavier force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Sea Salt Lemon switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. It is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range, but the Plum switch leans more towards the heavy side, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon switch is on the lighter end. Depending on personal preferences, someone may opt for the Plum switch for a stronger push feel, while others may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Sea Salt Lemon switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Sea Salt Lemon being slightly longer than the Plum. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Plum switch, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon switch with its longer travel distance. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25, 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 Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable. This means that it does not have any distinct characteristics that make it stand out, but it also does not have any drawbacks in terms of sound. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches are categorized as having a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Plum switch is also described as having a stepped feel, which means that it feels like it has two stages with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This adds a mild tactile feedback to the typing experience. The Sea Salt Lemon switch does not have any additional descriptors for its feel, but being categorized as mild signifies that it offers a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
Based on the available information, both the Plum and Sea Salt Lemon switches have similar subjective qualities. They are both categorized as having a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. This means that if you are looking for a switch with a moderate sound and a gentle typing feel, you can expect similar results from both switches. However, it is important to consider your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your intended use, as factors such as sound and feel can vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique feel, the Kailh Plum would be a great choice for you. Despite its weightiness, the Plum does not have a huge tactile bump, making it stand out from other tactile switches. Additionally, the Plum has a neutral sound profile that many find enjoyable.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon would be a perfect fit. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience due to their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. They are known for their lovely representation of what a linear switch can be. In terms of sound, the Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched, bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it a unique option among linear switches.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most. However, the Plum is described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage feel with pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon is simply described as mild.
Ultimately, both the Kailh Plum and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon have their own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. Consider your desired bottom out force, tactile or linear preference, sound profile, and typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a great typing experience and can be suitable for a variety of applications.
Mentioned in this article
