KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide variety of options to choose from. Two popular switches that offer distinct typing experiences are the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch, known for its buttery smooth typing experience. With a progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches offer a delightful sensation that makes typing a breeze. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the best of both worlds. It provides a satisfying tactile bump while also offering a refined and clean sound profile. Each keystroke produces a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, accompanied by a whisper-quiet topping out. The U4Tx switch ensures a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. While these general descriptions provide some insight, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes Gazzew's proprietary plastic blend, known as "boba plastic," for its top housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials contribute to the sound when you release a key, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing may provide a more distinct sound.
The bottom housing materials of these switches also differ in their composition and sound effects. The Sea Salt Lemon incorporates a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a rounder and duller sound. Similarly, the Gazzew U4Tx utilizes Gazzew's proprietary blend, or the "boba plastic," for its bottom housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile as well. Both materials have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the nylon bottom housing potentially delivering a slightly fuller sound.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that the Sea Salt Lemon and the Gazzew U4Tx share qualities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize a soft housing material for their top housings, whether it be polycarbonate or the Gazzew blend, to create a rich and deep sound profile when releasing a key. Additionally, both switches incorporate a softer bottom housing material, nylon or the Gazzew blend, to elicit a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key. While there are distinctions between the two, users can expect similar sound experiences with respect to the impact of the housing materials on key release and bottom-out sounds.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play an important role in determining the typing experience. Starting with the Sea Salt Lemon, it has a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which means that a lighter touch is required to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, its bottom out force of 53 grams indicates a slightly heavier force when pressing the switch all the way down. This medium-light combination offers a balance between ease of typing and a satisfying typing experience.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a different experience. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown. However, the bottom out force is stated as 65 grams, making it heavier compared to the Sea Salt Lemon. This suggests that a more substantial push is required for each keystroke, potentially resulting in a more pronounced tactile feedback during typing.
When it comes to weight preference, those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon switch, as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals who appreciate a stronger push for a more impactful typing feel may find the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, with the Sea Salt Lemon having a more traditional 4.0mm and the U4Tx being slightly shallower at 3.6mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on your typing experience. Gamers, for instance, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx may be more suitable for your needs. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper key press. In that case, the Sea Salt Lemon with its longer travel distance may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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 Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched characteristic gives these switches a bass-heavy and mellow tone, which can be quite pleasing to the ears. The neutral sound profile means that they have a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a bassy and muted sound experience. The bassy characteristic adds depth and richness to the sound, creating a more resonant and satisfying "thock" when bottoming out. The muted sound profile ensures that the keyboard produces a softer and quieter sound overall. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a mild typing experience. The switch has a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This means that the typing experience will be approachable and comfortable for most users, as its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a sharp and intense tactile feedback with each keypress. The tactile bump of this switch is strong and crisp, allowing users to distinctly feel the feedback with every press. This sharp tactile experience can add a sense of precision to typing, which some users may prefer.
Taking all the available information into account, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is best known for its smooth typing experience and neutral sound profile. It offers a buttery smooth feel and a moderate sound that can be enjoyed by both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch combines the best of both worlds with its refined sound profile and sharp tactile bump. It provides a luxurious typing experience with a deep and resonant sound when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, for those seeking similar sound and feel, the Sea Salt Lemon and Gazzew U4Tx provide options that can deliver comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a buttery smooth feel and a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more tactile experience, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be an excellent option. With its sharp tactile bump and refined sound profile, these switches provide a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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