Durock Sea Glass vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that you might consider are the Durock Sea Glass and the KTT Semi Mute. The Sea Glass switches from Durock are known for their captivating pastel colors and proprietary material blend, which gives them a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness while maintaining smoothness. With a bottom-out force of 62g, these switches feel weightless and offer a frictionless typing experience. Additionally, they produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches are perfect for those who prefer a noise-free environment. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience thanks to their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. The Semi Mute switches have a buttery and mild feel, and they are categorized as muted and neutral. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Durock Sea Glass Linear

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and the KTT Semi Mute differ significantly. The Sea Glass utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a pleasant, bright sound profile that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Semi Mute features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the Sea Glass's housing materials do not offer the same translucency as the Semi Mute's polycarbonate, making the latter more suitable for RGB lighting purposes.

Although the housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and the KTT Semi Mute have distinct differences, there are also similarities in terms of the sound profile they offer. Both switches feature materials that result in a pleasant and enjoyable sound experience. While the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend creates a slightly brighter sound, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate generates a more intense and crisp sound. Therefore, users can expect similar satisfactory results in terms of sound quality when using either switch.

The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches also varies between the Durock Sea Glass and the KTT Semi Mute. In the Sea Glass switch, the bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and overall feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Conversely, the housing materials of the Semi Mute equally affect both the bottom-out and release sound, resulting in a consistent experience throughout typing or gaming. This distinction in housing material impact provides users with different tactile sensations and acoustic feedback depending on their preference and typing style.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some similarities as well as differences. Both switches fall into the medium force category, making them suitable options for a range of users. The Sea Glass has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams, indicating that it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Sea Glass has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Semi Mute has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute switch might be the better choice as it has a lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the Durock Sea Glass switch with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. The heavier forces provide a stronger push feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.

In summary, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the Sea Glass and Semi Mute switches differ slightly, both switches offer medium force options. The choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences, with the Sea Glass providing a slightly heavier and more tactile experience, while the Semi Mute offers a lighter and smoother typing feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we find that the Sea Glass has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Semi Mute has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Semi Mute has the longer travel distance compared to the Sea Glass. 4.0mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the shallowest option. However, it is worth mentioning that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, then the Sea Glass option would be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance, such as the Semi Mute. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired depth of the switch's travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature. This can provide a distinctive auditory experience while typing, adding to the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch boasts a muted sound profile. These switches are designed to produce softer and quieter sounds compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, making them ideal for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions. The Semi Mute switch aims to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, you can achieve similar results with either the Sea Glass or Semi Mute switches.

As for feel, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offers a frictionless and smooth typing experience. These switches are designed to minimize resistance or friction when pressing the keys, providing a fluid travel that feels effortless. Additionally, the Sea Glass switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing approachable sound and feel. The Sea Glass switches can also be considered feathery, with an exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes them comfortable for activities like gaming, school, or work.

Similarly, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristics of the Semi Mute switch ensure that the sound and feel are approachable to most users, as they stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Overall, the Semi Mute switches deliver a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, thanks to their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology.

In conclusion, the Durock Sea Glass and KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Glass switches emanate a uniquely hollow sound signature, providing a captivating auditory experience. With a frictionless and mild typing feel, they offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, making them suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches prioritize a noise-free environment, providing a muted sound profile while delivering a buttery and mild typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either option can be a suitable choice.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you're looking for a switch that offers a unique and airy typing experience, with a weightless feel and a distinct hollow sound signature, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is the one for you. With its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, it strikes a balance between a satisfying keypress and a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions, and desire a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the better choice. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 58 grams, it offers a muted sound profile and a smooth, buttery keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for sound and feel, with the Sea Glass providing an airy and hollow typing experience, and the Semi Mute offering a quiet and seamless typing sensation.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Sea Glass Linear

$5.80

$4.87 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more