TTC Gold Silver vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Semi Mute mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and precise bottom-out with a resonant sound signature, providing a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in every keystroke. On the other hand, the Semi Mute is tailored for those seeking a noise-free environment with its silent operation and advanced dampening technology for a comfortable typing experience. While the Gold Silver focuses on speed and precision, the Semi Mute prioritizes quietness and comfort. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
NPI
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Gold Silver differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a crisper and more resonant sound profile.
Despite the differences in the bottom housing material between the Gold Silver and Semi Mute, both switches benefit from the utilization of polycarbonate for the top housing. This commonality ensures that both switches offer a sharper and more defined sound profile, particularly when engaging the keyswitches. While the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing may provide a slightly different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute, the overall sound profile remains consistent due to the shared top housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Semi Mute comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Gold Silver's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Semi Mute's dual polycarbonate housing ensures a consistently crisp and resonant typing experience. Both switches deliver satisfying results, with slight variations in sound profile based on the specific housing materials used.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both have relatively light actuation forces, with the Gold Silver being slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Silver has no specified value while the Semi Mute requires a heavier force of 58 grams to fully press down. This means that the Gold Silver switch may provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the Semi Mute switch offers a more substantial feeling with a heavier bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, some may choose the Gold Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Semi Mute for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gold Silver switch more suitable, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the Semi Mute.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Silver switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prioritize faster response times, the Gold Silver switch may be preferred. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch with a slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a deeper, more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is more desirable for individual typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is best described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is muted, offering a quieter and softer sound profile, perfect for noise-conscious individuals. Both switches fall under the neutral sound profile category, making them versatile options suitable for various settings. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is polished and silky, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. It also boasts a mild and subtle feel, offering a gentle resistance and a quiet typing experience suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is buttery and mild, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a more polished sensation while the Semi Mute focuses on smoothness and ease of use.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver switch excels in providing rapid responsiveness with a decisive bottom-out and a resonant sound signature, making it a top choice for those seeking speed and fluidity in their typing. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a silent operation with advanced dampening technology, perfect for creating a quiet and undisturbed typing environment. Whether you prefer the thocky sound and polished feel of the Gold Silver switch or the muted sound and buttery feel of the Semi Mute switch, both options cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value rapid responsiveness, precision, and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment, smooth typing experience, and a muted, buttery feel, the Semi Mute switch could be more suitable. Consider your typing style, work environment, and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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