KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Sky V3 are two popular options to consider. The Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch that is highly praised for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is also a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance of comfort and precision. While the Sea Salt Lemon is categorized as low-pitched and mild, the Sky V3 falls under the neutral and subdued categories. Both switches have their own unique strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Sky V3 use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate's stiffness allows for a clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both keyboards. With both keyboards featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing or gaming.
On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Sky V3 differ in their bottom housing material, with the Sea Salt Lemon using nylon while the Sky V3 also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound quality when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. Despite this difference, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience thanks to the qualities that nylon brings to the bottom of the switch.
When considering the overall typing experience, the split design of the top and bottom housings in both the Sea Salt Lemon and the Sky V3 allows for users to feel the impact of each housing material. The bottom housing material significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of characteristics between the top and bottom housings enhances the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches, creating a dynamic typing experience for users of both keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we see that the Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sea Salt Lemon has a higher force of 53 grams compared to the Sky V3's unknown force. This makes the Sea Salt Lemon a slightly heavier switch overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V3 may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon despite its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same level of key travel. Therefore, whether you choose the Sea Salt Lemon or the Sky V3, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience with a travel distance that is neither shorter nor longer than the other. Users can enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience with either switch option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or professionals. The Sea Salt Lemon switch has a low-pitched tone, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow sound, while the Sky V3 has a more subdued sound that is dampened yet not completely silent. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, both the Sea Salt Lemon and the Sky V3 switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle feel when typing, without any extreme characteristics that might be off-putting to some typists. The buttery smooth typing experience of the Sea Salt Lemon, combined with its progressive spring design, offers a pleasant typing experience. Likewise, the Dareu Sky V3's medium-light weight and balanced actuation force provide a comfortable and precise typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer quality options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch with neutral sound profiles and mild typing experiences. While there may be subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of comfort and precision. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user's setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 53 grams and a buttery smooth typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and widespread acclaim for delivering comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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