KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gateron Type L both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sea Salt Lemon provides a buttery smooth typing experience with its progressive spring and dry-lube design, making it a great choice for those seeking a low-pitched and mild linear switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out as the lightest in the series, requiring only 45g to bottom out. It offers a subdued and feathery feel with an easy-to-press design, appealing to those who prefer a neutral and light linear switch. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gateron Type L switches, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the Sea Salt Lemon uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Type L features a nylon top housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material will lead to a distinct auditory experience when typing on these switches.
In terms of aesthetic appeal, the Sea Salt Lemon's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency that is useful for showcasing RGB lighting, making it a visually striking option for those who prioritize customization. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L's nylon top housing may lack the same level of visual appeal due to its opaque nature. However, both switches feature a classic nylon bottom housing that provides a timeless design. Overall, the contrasting housing materials of these switches offer a balance between visual aesthetics and sound profile.
It is interesting to note that the qualities of the housing materials are distributed differently in each switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches like the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gateron Type L.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is the lighter option. The Sea Salt Lemon has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, while the Type L requires only 38 grams to actuate. The bottom out force of the Sea Salt Lemon is also higher at 53 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams.
When considering weight, the lighter Type L switch may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the slightly heavier Sea Salt Lemon switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, so regardless of the slight differences in force, users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical for both switches. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, it can be noted that they offer a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Users can expect the same level of key press depth when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of 4mm is consistent for both the Sea Salt Lemon and Type L linear switches, providing users with a familiar and reliable typing experience.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gateron Type L switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. However, the Sea Salt Lemon leans towards a low-pitched tone, while the Type L offers a more subdued sound when pressed. The Sea Salt Lemon's low-pitched sound may provide a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience, while the Type L's subdued sound signature offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Lemon is characterized as providing a mild typing experience, which falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the Type L is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering an exceptionally light typing experience with minimal exertion required. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions for activities like gaming, school, or work.
In conclusion, both the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Gateron Type L linear switches offer unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sea Salt Lemon provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a mild feel, while the Type L stands out with its light actuation force, subdued sound signature, and feathery typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve similar results in terms of performance and comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is important to take into account your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a subdued, neutral sound profile that is also easy-to-press and feathery in feel, the Gateron Type L could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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