Everglide Oreo vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Oreo and the KTT Semi Mute are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct experiences for users. The Oreo is a tactile switch that boasts a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, providing a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. It offers a medium light tactility, striking the perfect balance between tactile feedback and comfort. Additionally, the Oreo produces a subtle, mellow sound profile, making it a great choice for those who want a tactile switch without excessive noise. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch specifically designed for users who prioritize a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing. Despite its name, the Semi Mute switch operates completely silently, thanks to advanced dampening technology. With a linear actuation, this switch provides a pleasant and gratifying typing feel. The Semi Mute is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Neutral'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Oreo and the KTT Semi Mute both feature polycarbonate housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. This shared characteristic means that both switches will exhibit similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer plastic. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly beneficial if one plans to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion and customization options.
However, when considering the different housings, it is worth noting the impact of each housing material on the overall typing experience. While the Oreo and the Semi Mute share the same polycarbonate material, the qualities of this material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of each switch will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. This is important to consider for those seeking a specific tactile response or sound when typing. Conversely, the top housing will play a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, affecting the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, although the Everglide Oreo and the KTT Semi Mute feature the same polycarbonate housing materials, there may still be subtle differences in the typing experience due to the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings. Both switches, however, will deliver a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for appealing RGB lighting effects. Whether choosing the Oreo or the Semi Mute, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic customization, but should consider the nuances brought by the different housing placements.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are a few key differences to note. The Oreo tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Semi Mute linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, putting it in the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Oreo tactile switch may be the preferred choice. With a lower actuation force, it requires less pressure to trigger a keystroke, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Semi Mute linear switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. This provides a stronger push feel, which some individuals may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience.
Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, falling within the medium range. This means that users can expect a balanced typing experience with a good level of responsiveness without being too light or heavy. Ultimately, the choice between the Oreo tactile switch and the Semi Mute linear switch may come down to personal preference in terms of the desired typing feel and the specific needs of the user.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled for both switches. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience a consistent tactile response and key press feel regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as having a subtle and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. It is worth noting that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used. However, based on the provided information, the Oreo switch offers a more understated sound experience, while the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a noise-free environment.
Moving on to feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as having a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. It is categorized as an accented switch, which means it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, it is a stepped switch, which means it has a more mild feel compared to switches with a bigger tactile bump. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as offering a buttery and mild typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke with a gentle feel. The qualities of the Semi Mute switch fall within a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring approachability for most users.
In conclusion, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Oreo switch provides a subtle and mellow sound profile along with a medium level of tactility and a stepped feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a noise-free environment with its muted sound and offers a buttery and mild typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and gratifying typing experience, albeit with different emphasis. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a satisfying tactile typing experience with a comfortable feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, striking a perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. With a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, typing on the Oreos is a treat for your fingertips. Additionally, these switches provide a subtle, mellow sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the better choice. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is medium, the Semi Mute switches provide a balanced actuation force requirement suitable for most intents and purposes. They feature advanced dampening technology and a linear actuation, resulting in a smooth and buttery keystroke experience. The sound produced by the Semi Mute switches is muted, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch boils down to your personal preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize a satisfying tactile feel with a medium-light bottom out force or a noise-free environment with a smooth and buttery typing experience, both switches offer their unique advantages. With these guidelines and the provided information, you'll be able to make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
