KTT Semi Mute vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options that cater to those seeking a noise-free typing experience are the KTT Semi Mute and the TTC Silent Red. The KTT Semi Mute switches, despite their name, offer complete silence during operation, making them ideal for individuals who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. These linear switches feature advanced dampening technology and provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience without the usual noise associated with mechanical keyboards. With a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for use in offices or shared living spaces. They offer a consistent and smooth feel throughout, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision and choose the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Semi Mute and the TTC Silent Red both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it perfect for those who plan to use RGB lighting to enhance the aesthetics of their keyboard. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal from both the KTT Semi Mute and TTC Silent Red switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Semi Mute features polycarbonate while the TTC Silent Red utilizes nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a clearer and resonant sound profile in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that the TTC Silent Red's nylon bottom housing will create a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the KTT Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Semi Mute and the TTC Silent Red will come down to personal preference. If you prioritize a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the typing experience, then the KTT Semi Mute with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, especially during the bottom-out phase, the TTC Silent Red's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing may be more suitable. Both options offer advantages in terms of sound and aesthetics, so it's important to consider your own preferences and needs when making a decision between the two.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can observe a few differences. The Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Semi Mute requires 58 grams of force, whereas the Silent Red requires 63.5 grams, again making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force, providing a balanced typing experience. However, the Silent Red has a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. If weight is a consideration, the Semi Mute is lighter, which can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches are similar, the Silent Red offers a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When it comes to travel distance, there is a notable difference between the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch. The Semi Mute has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls within the more traditional range, while the Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Silent Red the shorter option between the two. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the Silent Red a popular choice for them. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Semi Mute for a more hearty and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's personal preference for either a shorter and more responsive experience or a longer and more substantial feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Semi Mute and TTC Silent Red switches are described as muted. This means that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. With either switch, you can expect a noise-free and undisturbed typing experience, making them suitable for quiet environments such as late-night sessions or office/shared living spaces.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience. They are described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This means that you can expect a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with either switch. Additionally, both switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes them approachable to most users, as their qualities fall within a safe and middle-ground zone. The Silent Red switch also has the added descriptor of being polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Semi Mute and TTC Silent Red switches provide a noise-free and gratifying typing experience. They are both described as muted, ensuring a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. In terms of feel, they are both buttery and offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They also provide a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. The Silent Red switch has the additional benefit of a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, whether you choose the KTT Semi Mute or TTC Silent Red switch, you can expect similar results in terms of a noise-free and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who values a noise-free environment and desires undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a completely silent operation and feature advanced dampening technology, providing a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. With a muted sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, the Semi Mute switch is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced, or if you're planning to use these at home or work.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a muted sound profile, making them perfect for office or shared living space use. With a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, as well as a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort, the Silent Red switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience that will be approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Semi Mute and TTC Silent Red switches excel in providing quiet and smooth typing experiences. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If a completely silent operation is your top priority, along with a moderate force requirement, opt for the Semi Mute switch. However, if you prioritize a muted sound profile along with a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the Silent Red switch is the ideal choice. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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