KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the TTC Silent Frozen, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Sea Salt Lemon switches are highly regarded for their progressive spring and KTT's innovative dry-lube design, resulting in an incredibly smooth and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switches are renowned for their whisper-quiet sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter environment. Additionally, they offer a pillowy type feel that enhances the overall typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your specific preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the TTC Silent Frozen both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing in both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and lighting effects from both the Sea Salt Lemon and Silent Frozen when it comes to the top housing.
However, the bottom housings of these two switches differ. The Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Frozen employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon housing will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. This distinction means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the Sea Salt Lemon will be different from that of the Silent Frozen, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on these aspects.
To summarize, the Sea Salt Lemon and the Silent Frozen share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches will exhibit a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to this material choice. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Sea Salt Lemon will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound. Therefore, users can expect variations in the bottom-out sound and feel between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Sea Salt Lemon switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's lighter actuation force of 39 grams. This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke initially. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Sea Salt Lemon switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Silent Frozen switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. This suggests that typing on the Sea Salt Lemon switch might provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier forces required, while the Silent Frozen switch would offer a lighter and potentially smoother typing feel. However, both switches fall within the realm of being relatively light, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing ease and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with some opting for the Sea Salt Lemon switch for a slightly heavier touch and others favoring the Silent Frozen switch for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Salt Lemon has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Sea Salt Lemon's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the most traditional range, offering a familiar and comfortable experience for users. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, leading to increased speed and efficiency in gaming scenarios. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances may feel abrupt to some individuals who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on keys. Therefore, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 comparing the sound of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, they have some similarities. Both switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which means they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Sea Salt Lemon is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, the Silent Frozen is muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer pleasant sound profiles, with the Silent Frozen being quieter and having a satisfying thocky sound, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a more neutral tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. This means it provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Silent Frozen, on the other hand, is described as creamy and buttery. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, where typing feels effortless and uniform. The Silent Frozen is also feathery, meaning it requires little exertion from your fingers and reduces finger fatigue. It is a comfortable option for extended typing sessions such as gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the Silent Frozen has a subtle typing feel, with gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, with the Silent Frozen being particularly creamy and buttery. The Sea Salt Lemon, however, offers a more neutral and mild typing feel.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and TTC Silent Frozen linear switches offer different subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Silent Frozen is thocky, low-pitched, and muted. When it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a mild and approachable typing experience, while the Silent Frozen is creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. However, it is important to note that the subjective experience of switches can also be influenced by individual preferences and other factors such as keyboard setup and keycaps used. Therefore, it is recommended to try out both switches or consult with experts and reviews to determine which one suits your specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon would be a great choice for you. These switches are known for their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, which provide a lovely typing experience. Additionally, the Sea Salt Lemon has a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a low-pitched tone, making it suitable for various purposes.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience and a light bottom out force, the TTC Silent Frozen would be the ideal option. These switches are extremely quiet and offer a pillowy feel when typing. They are characterized by a thocky sound profile, which produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressing and releasing the keys. The Silent Frozen switches also have a low-pitched and muted sound, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a mild typing experience, providing a safe middle-ground zone for sound and feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen offers a creamy and buttery typing experience, with smooth and effortless keystrokes. It also has a feathery, subtle, and polished feel, reducing finger fatigue and ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and TTC Silent Frozen comes down to your personal preferences. If you value smoothness and a medium-light bottom out force, the Sea Salt Lemon would be a great choice. However, if you prioritize a silent typing experience and a light bottom out force, the Silent Frozen switches would be more suitable for you. Consider your sound and feel preferences, as well as the specific requirements of your typing environment, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
