KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, both of which are linear switches. The Sea Salt Lemon is renowned for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. It is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild in terms of its sound and feel. On the other hand, the WS Yellow offers a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches provide a satisfying bounce while delivering a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Categorized as creamy, mild, and polished, these lightweight switches ensure effortless keystrokes and a smooth typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in terms of the top housing material. The Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates 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. On the other hand, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the Sea Salt Lemon will provide a brighter and more defined sound, while the WS Yellow will offer a richer and mellower sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Sea Salt Lemon and WS Yellow share the same nylon housing. This nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing in both switches enhances the overall sound quality, creating a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing will contribute to the sound when a key is released, while the WS Yellow's nylon top housing will have a similar effect. The qualities of the bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both switches, will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, when pressing down on either switch, the typing experience will be influenced by the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct sound characteristics due to the different materials used in their respective top housings, while sharing similarities in the bottom housing's sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force for the Sea Salt Lemon is 45 grams, which requires a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke. Unfortunately, the actuation force for the WS Yellow is unavailable, but we can assume it is similar to the Sea Salt Lemon since both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is also considered medium-light.
In terms of weight, both switches offer a relatively lighter option compared to switches with heavier actuation forces. This lighter weight allows for a more comfortable typing experience over longer periods of time, making them suitable for workplace keyboards or extended gaming sessions. However, if someone prefers a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for options with heavier actuation forces.
In summary, while the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow switch is unknown, both the Sea Salt Lemon and the WS Yellow provide a medium-light touch for triggering keystrokes, as indicated by their 53-gram bottom out force. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Sea Salt Lemon has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Sea Salt Lemon falls into the more traditional category with its 4 mm travel distance, while the WS Yellow offers a slightly shallower experience at 3.8 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as they result in faster response times, making the WS Yellow a good option for those seeking quick responsiveness. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, in which case the Sea Salt Lemon with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of key depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Yellow comes in at $3.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, which can be pleasing to the ears. As for the WS Yellow linear switch, the information provided does not specify its sound characteristics. However, it does mention that the switch offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. It falls into the safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable feel for most users. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch is described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch construction. Additionally, the WS Yellow switch is also described as mild and polished, indicating a refined finish and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. Both switches seem to offer a comfortable and enjoyable feel while typing.
In conclusion, the Sea Salt Lemon and WS Yellow linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Salt Lemon offers a low-pitched sound profile and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch provides a creamy and polished feel, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience. While the sound profile of the WS Yellow switch is not explicitly mentioned, it is described as offering a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts appreciate. Ultimately, both switches offer pleasant and comfortable typing experiences, but with slightly different characteristics. If you enjoy the features of one switch, you can expect similar results with the other in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering the Sea Salt Lemon and the WS Yellow linear switches, there are a few key factors to consider. Both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, making them medium-light switches.
The Sea Salt Lemon is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience, thanks to its progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. It offers a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The feel of the Sea Salt Lemon is mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.
On the other hand, the WS Yellow is praised for its timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With its 22mm double-stage spring at its core, it offers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The WS Yellow's material blend also provides a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Its feel can be described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, its mild and polished characteristics contribute to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, if you value a low-pitched sound profile and a mild feel, the Sea Salt Lemon would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce, a familiar sound signature, and a creamy and polished feel, then the WS Yellow would be the way to go. Consider your personal preferences and typing needs when making your decision between these two linear switches.
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