KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it's essential to consider the key characteristics that set them apart. The Sea Salt Lemon is renowned for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design by KTT. On the other hand, the Snow switch offers a unique sound signature with its innovative POK material used in the top housing and stem. While Sea Salt Lemon is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', Snow is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and Dareu Snow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and durability. The Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Snow's POK top housing, which provides a smooth and clacky sound. While polycarbonate is known for its clear and resonant sound, POK material offers exceptional strength and wear resistance. However, both materials are excellent choices for switch housings, albeit with slightly different sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Sea Salt Lemon and the Dareu Snow feature nylon housings that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This makes both switches ideal for those looking for a more subdued typing experience. While the top and bottom housing materials may be the same for these switches, the qualities each material brings to the sound profile are split between the two parts, affecting the sound and feel of both the actuation and release of the keys.
Overall, the Sea Salt Lemon and Dareu Snow offer unique housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound profiles and typing experiences. The Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, while the Snow's POK top housing offers smooth and clacky switches. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings that create a deeper and fuller sound, making them suitable for users seeking a quieter typing experience. Whether it's the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the smoothness of POK material, both switches provide durability and distinct sound profiles for enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Sea Salt Lemon is 53 grams, while the Snow requires 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Sea Salt Lemon switch slightly lighter overall in both actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the better choice. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Dareu Snow switch with its slightly heavier forces. In terms of similarities, both switches provide a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces, which will result in a similar typing experience for those who do not have a specific preference for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Snow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a faster response time. Both switches offer advantages depending on personal preference, with the Sea Salt Lemon providing a more traditional feel and the Snow offering a shallower key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a mellow tone that is suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is known for its thocky sound signature, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when typing. While the Sea Salt Lemon leans towards a softer and more neutral sound, the Snow switch delivers a more substantial and pronounced typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, giving a lively and responsive feel when keys are pressed. The Sea Salt Lemon excels in providing a comfortable and approachable typing experience, while the Snow switch offers a more energetic and playful feel for those seeking a bit more feedback from their switches.
Overall, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Salt Lemon provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and mild sound profile, appealing to users looking for a more subdued but comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy feel, catering to those who prefer a deeper and more responsive typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches offer distinct qualities that are sure to enhance the keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a deeper sound signature with innovative materials, the Snow switch could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to try them out and see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Happy typing!
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