KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the TKC Tangerine, both being linear switches. The Sea Salt Lemon is widely recognized for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, it offers a subtle and satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches boast an incredibly smooth feel that takes typing to a whole new level. With the rare UHWMPE housings, these switches provide a polished, frictionless experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$2.80 per 10

$6.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the TKC Tangerine differ in their choice of housing materials. The Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Tangerine opts for a UHWMPE top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on the Sea Salt Lemon. In contrast, the UHWMPE top housing of the Tangerine produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Therefore, the two switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their top housing materials.

Turning to the bottom housing, the Sea Salt Lemon incorporates a nylon material, known for its softer nature. This contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing. Similar to its effect on the top housing, this newer material offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Thus, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ in terms of sound profile, with the nylon of the Sea Salt Lemon creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the UHWMPE of the Tangerine.

While the top and bottom housings of the Sea Salt Lemon and the Tangerine vary, it is important to note that they still share some similarities in terms of sound. Both switches employ materials that contribute to a resonant sound profile. The Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, though different from the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom housings, still provide clear and fuller sound experiences. Thus, despite the differences in housing materials, users can expect comparable results from both switches in terms of sound quality.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Sea Salt Lemon has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which can be considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch does not provide the specific actuation force measurement, but it does have a bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium category.

The difference in actuation force means that the Sea Salt Lemon requires a lighter touch to initiate a keystroke compared to the Tangerine switch, which remains unknown. This lighter actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. However, the Tangerine switch compensates for this by offering a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing feel.

Considering weight preferences, those seeking a lighter keyboard for extended usage or extended gaming sessions may prefer the Sea Salt Lemon switch due to its relatively lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, individuals who crave a stronger push and desire a more significant typing experience may find the Tangerine switch more suitable with its higher bottom out force.

If both switches were to have identical actuation forces, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes. Overall, the choice between the Sea Salt Lemon and Tangerine switches depends on personal preferences regarding typing experience and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.

Travel distance

The KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Sea Salt Lemon or the Tangerine, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing experience. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance for users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that the switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched sound profile, giving off a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The typing sensation is smooth and the switch falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. It provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch has a fluid travel and offers a sleek, refined typing experience.

Considering all the available information, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience and low-pitched sound profile. It provides a mild and approachable feel, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch offers an incredibly smooth feel and has a high-pitched sound profile. With its UHWMPE housing, it provides a frictionless and polished typing experience.

If you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon can be a good choice. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisp sound, along with a frictionless and polished feel, the TKC Tangerine switch may be more suitable for you. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a switch that offers a buttery smooth typing experience, then the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, resulting in a lovely representation of what a linear switch can be. They also have a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced typists in various settings.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and an incredibly smooth feel, then the TKC Tangerine linear switch is the better choice. These switches feature UHWMPE housings, which are rare in the world of bespoke mechanical switches, offering a frictionless and buttery typing experience. They also have a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more rich and crisp sound.

Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Consider whether you prefer a smoother feel or a lower-pitched sound when making your decision. In the end, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the TKC Tangerine linear switches are excellent choices that will enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Sea Salt Lemon Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more