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KTT Semi Mute vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches often comes down to personal preference. The KTT Semi Mute, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, a tactile switch, both offer unique advantages that cater to specific needs. The Semi Mute switches are ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, as they are completely silent despite their name. With a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, they provide a comfortable and gratifying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches from Wuque Studio captivate users with their profound tactile bump and engaging resistance. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke becomes an immersive journey. Additionally, the nylon housing of these switches produces a satisfying "thocky" resonance for auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

43g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

58g

Bottom-out force

70g

Pre-travel

1.60 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.20 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

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

15mm spring

Spring

22mm single-stage spring

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in terms of their effects on the sound profile of the switches. The Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, both materials offer excellent visibility for RGB lighting due to their translucency.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the switches also differ in material composition. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute contributes to its sharp and crisp sound profile, mirroring its impact on the top housing. However, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon bottom housing adds to its deep and full sound profile, emphasizing its qualities of absorbing sound and creating a rounder sound. While the impact of the bottom housing is most noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing has a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key.

In conclusion, the KTT Semi Mute and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their housing materials and the resulting sound profiles. The Semi Mute's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches offer excellent visibility for RGB lighting due to their translucent housing materials. When considering the impact of the housing materials, it is important to note that the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Semi Mute requires an actuation force of 43 grams, while the force for the WS Heavy Tactile is currently unavailable. However, the bottom out force for the Semi Mute is higher at 58 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams for the WS Heavy Tactile.

Considering the weight of the switches, it is worth noting that some individuals prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming periods. The lighter actuation force of the WS Heavy Tactile may be more suitable for these users, providing a smoother and easier keystroke initiation. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, appealing to those who desire a stronger push feel while typing.

While the specific actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile is currently unknown, the contrast between the bottom out forces showcases the difference in the two switches' overall weight. The Semi Mute is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force, providing a more tactile experience with a greater force required for both triggering a keystroke and bottoming out. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile is lighter in terms of bottom out force, suggesting a potentially gentler typing experience.

In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch differ in terms of weight. The Semi Mute offers a medium actuation force with a heavier bottom out force, while the WS Heavy Tactile's actuation force is unknown with a lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Semi Mute providing a more substantial typing experience and the WS Heavy Tactile offering a potentially lighter and smoother keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can see that they have different measurements. The Semi Mute has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Semi Mute, with its 4 mm travel distance, falls into the more traditional range, providing a satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a slightly shallower experience with its 3.2 mm travel distance. This can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances are favored in gaming. However, those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may find the longer travel distance of the Semi Mute to be more satisfying. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and the desired user experience.

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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.

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, the KTT Semi Mute switch is known for its muted profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This is perfect for those who value a noise-free environment and prefer a more subtle auditory experience during late-night typing sessions. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a completely different sound profile. It can be described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Additionally, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences.

In terms of feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. With a smooth and fluid keystroke, it provides a seamless and effortless sensation. The Mild descriptor suggests that the switch offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced tactile characteristics. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. With a prominent and distinct tactile bump, each keystroke is accompanied by a snappy and reactive feel. The WS Heavy Tactile switch can be described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the switch has a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation.

Considering all the available information, it is clear that the KTT Semi Mute and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Semi Mute delivers a muted and buttery typing experience, ensuring a noise-free environment and a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch creates a clacky and resonant sound profile, accompanied by an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. These switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their desired typing experience. However, it is important to note that individual factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and prefer a linear actuation, then the KTT Semi Mute switches would be ideal for you. With their completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology, these switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing experience. They also have a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound profile that is muted and neutral, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Semi Mute switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, making typing seamless and effortless.

On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience and appreciate a pronounced tactile bump, then the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are the way to go. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke is imbued with satisfying resistance, making typing engaging and immersive. These switches also offer a captivating sound profile, described as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, with Wuque Studios' nylon housings contributing to a "thocky" resonance. In terms of feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switches provide a range of options, from accented to bouncy, invigorating to sharp, and snappy. Each option offers a distinct tactile feedback and typing sensation.

Ultimately, your decision between the KTT Semi Mute switches and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches will depend on your preferences for sound and feel. Consider whether a noise-free environment and linear actuation or a tactile typing experience with captivating sound profiles are more important to you. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience.

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