KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the KTT Wine Red. The Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch with a lovely representation of what this type of switch can offer. With its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design, these switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer an intoxicating experience. Typing on them gives a pillowy light feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile. The Sea Salt Lemon is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, while the Wine Red switches are known for being bassy and low-pitched. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Sea Salt Lemon and KTT Wine Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both housings are translucent, making them ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for similar sound profiles and aesthetics, both the Sea Salt Lemon and Wine Red would provide similar results.
However, the Sea Salt Lemon and Wine Red differ in their bottom housings. The Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing counterpart. This means that the bottom housing of the Wine Red will contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, just like its top housing.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom housings. Pressing down on the switch will elicit the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing, contributing to the sound produced when letting go. Therefore, the difference in top and bottom housing materials between the Sea Salt Lemon and Wine Red will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are subtle differences to note. The Sea Salt Lemon has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Wine Red's 44 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sea Salt Lemon requires 53 grams, while the Wine Red demands 55 grams, making the Wine Red slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium-light range, providing a comfortable typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the Wine Red. Ultimately, regardless of the slight variations in actuation and bottom out force, both switches yield similar results in terms of force required.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the KTT Wine Red linear switches have the same travel distance 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. Therefore, there is no difference in the travel distance between these two switches, and you can expect similar results when using either one.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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
The Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. This gives the typing experience a soothing and deep sound. In contrast, the Wine Red linear switch is also low-pitched, but it has a bassy and rich sound profile. The frequency range is lower, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer a satisfying sound experience, suitable for various preferences and environments. It is important to note that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The switch does not have pronounced characteristics, creating a typing experience that falls within a safe and middle-ground zone. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Wine Red linear switch. However, linear switches generally offer a smoother and more consistent typing experience compared to tactile or clicky switches.
Taking all the available information into account, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience and mild feel. It produces a low-pitched sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most users and purposes. The Wine Red linear switch, on the other hand, is loved for its pillowy light type feel and deep, rich sound profile. While there is limited information available on the feel of the Wine Red, it is expected to offer a similar smooth typing experience as it is also a linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and any additional factors such as board and keycap choices.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon would be a great choice for you. With its buttery smooth typing experience and medium-light bottom out force, it offers a satisfying and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, the Wine Red switch is the way to go. With its pillowy light type feel and medium-light bottom out force, it provides a deep and rich sound that resembles bass tones. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel.
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