KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Durock T1

Overview

The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Durock T1 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch, known for its buttery smooth typing experience. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches provide a delightful sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers a unique level of comfort. It features a medium bump when pressing down, reminiscent of rain falling on a window, and provides a satisfying sound. The Sea Salt Lemon is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, while the Durock T1 is categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal, making them suitable choices for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you the most.

By the numbers

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

Durock T1 Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.

In terms of their bottom housings, the Sea Salt Lemon and the Durock T1 differ slightly. The Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the T1 also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar sound profile. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, eliciting a deep and full sound.

When it comes to pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. However, the top housing has more influence on the sound when the key is released. This distinction in the housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, as the different components contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Despite the slight variation between the top and bottom housings, both the Sea Salt Lemon and the Durock T1 deliver impressive performance and sound characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Sea Salt Lemon boasts a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the T1's specific actuation force is unknown, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be classified as medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter feel and want to type for extended periods, the Sea Salt Lemon would be a suitable choice. Its lighter actuation force allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially reduces fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial and pronounced keystroke, the T1 would provide a satisfying push feel due to its heavier bottom out force.

While the actuation force for the T1 is not specified, it can be assumed that both switches offer a similar actuation experience. Depending on personal preference, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel during typing or gaming sessions.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled. Both switches provide a satisfying amount of key travel for a comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the Sea Salt Lemon or the T1, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have low-pitched sound profiles. This means that they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have 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 can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as having a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The T1 tactile switch, on the other hand, has a stepped feel. This means that it provides a two-stage tactile feedback, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Additionally, the T1 switch is also described as being accented, which means it offers a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches are also described as being polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the available information, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer desirable qualities in their respective categories. The Sea Salt Lemon is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience with a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. On the other hand, the T1 is praised for its super comfortable typing experience with a medium tactile bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While they have differences in terms of feel, both switches offer pleasant typing experiences. Additionally, their similar low-pitched sound profiles and neutral characteristics make them suitable for various users and environments. Ultimately, whether you choose the Sea Salt Lemon or the T1, you can expect to achieve similar results of satisfaction in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To summarize, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is a great choice. Its progressive spring and dry-lube design provide a delightful feel while typing. In terms of sound, the Sea Salt Lemon has a low-pitched and neutral profile, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock T1 is a perfect option. It offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. The T1 switch also has a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a mild yet prominent amount of tactility and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Consider your preferences and typing style to choose between these two switches, providing you with a customized mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Durock T1 Tactile

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn more