KTT Cream Yellow vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Semi Mute. These switches may both fall under the linear category, but they have distinct qualities that set them apart. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy and clacky feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. Additionally, the lengthened spring adds to the unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch lives up to its name by offering a completely silent operation. With advanced dampening technology and linear actuation, it provides a buttery, mild, and muted typing feel that is perfect for those seeking a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
18mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and KTT Semi Mute both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their top housing.
However, the materials used for the bottom housing differ between the Cream Yellow and the Semi Mute. The Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, typing on the Cream Yellow will have a distinct sound and feel in comparison to the Semi Mute.
In contrast, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Although also made of polycarbonate, the bottom housing still contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the bottom housing complements the top housing, creating a more clear and resonant sound. It is important to note that the impact of the bottom housing is felt during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when you release a key.
Overall, while both switches have polycarbonate top housing for similar sound characteristics, the difference in their bottom housing materials - nylon for the Cream Yellow and polycarbonate for the Semi Mute - results in distinct sound experiences. The Cream Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the Semi Mute provides a sharper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Cream Yellow requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Semi Mute requires slightly less at 43 grams. Although they have different actuation forces, both switches fall into the medium category, offering a balanced typing experience.
Moving on to bottom out force, both switches share the same value of 58 grams. This means that regardless of the actuation force, the user will experience a consistent amount of force when fully pressing down on the keys, resulting in a similar typing sensation.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. The Cream Yellow, with its higher actuation force, offers a slightly more substantial typing experience, which some individuals may prefer for a tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Semi Mute provides a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch and want to reduce fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.
In summary, the actuation force of the KTT Cream Yellow and KTT Semi Mute switches differ, with the Cream Yellow requiring 50 grams and the Semi Mute requiring 43 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a similar typing feel in terms of full key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a stronger or lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi Mute has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4 mm is considered the norm, while 3 mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the Cream Yellow switch with its 3.5 mm travel distance would be preferred for its increased responsiveness. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Semi Mute switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be the choice to make. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This is achieved through its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which provide resonant audio feedback. The lengthened spring also contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel, giving the keys a lively and spring-like sensation.
On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is designed for those who value a noise-free environment. Despite being named "Semi Mute", these switches operate completely silently. They are equipped with advanced dampening technology that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound produced by the Semi Mute switch is described as muted, softer, and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. In terms of feel, the Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and smooth keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Semi Mute switch is also described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and Semi Mute switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, while the Semi Mute switch provides a muted sound and a buttery, mild typing experience. If you are looking for a louder, more vibrant typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a noise-free environment and a smooth typing feel, the Semi Mute switch is a great option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is the better choice for you. Its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring contribute to a uniquely resonant and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. The Semi Mute switches offer a buttery and mild typing experience, while minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and feel or noise-free typing.
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