TTC Bluish White vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the KTT Semi Mute, a linear switch. The Bluish White is renowned for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience, offering a tactile response and a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute, despite its name, provides a completely silent operation for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute delivers a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Bluish White Tactile

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$6.60

$4.63 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the TTC Bluish White and the KTT Semi Mute feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Hence, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.

In terms of bottom housings, the Bluish White stands out with its nylon material. When typing on switches that use nylon, users can experience a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. As a result, users can expect a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile from the bottom-out sound and feel of the Semi Mute.

It's worth noting that with switches that have different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the switch's sound. Pressing down on the switch will result in the qualities of the bottom housing being felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Bluish White and Semi Mute differ in their bottom housing materials, users can expect a distinction in the sound characteristics associated with bottoming out, but similar results when releasing the keys.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are notable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Bluish White requires a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams, while the Semi Mute requires a slightly heavier force of 43 grams for actuation. This means that the Bluish White provides a slightly lighter touch when triggering keystrokes compared to the Semi Mute.

In terms of bottom out force, the Bluish White has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Semi Mute has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams. This indicates that the Semi Mute requires more pressure to fully press down the key compared to the Bluish White.

Considering weight, the lighter actuation force of the Bluish White may be preferable for individuals who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. It allows for a lighter touch and potentially reduces fatigue over time. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Semi Mute may be favored by those who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.

While the actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches differ, it is important to note that both switches offer a tactile feedback. This means that regardless of the force required for actuation and bottom out, users can expect a tactile response when pressing the keys. The specific force required for each switch can ensure a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users who prefer different levels of resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the Bluish White has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi Mute has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Semi Mute is more in line with traditional switches, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Bluish White offers a shorter travel distance which is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Bluish White with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial key press, the Semi Mute's longer travel distance may be more suitable. In either case, both switches offer their own advantages and will provide similar results in terms of functionality.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This sound profile provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is known for its muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the Semi Mute switch can be described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level suitable for various environments. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, so individual results may vary.

In terms of feel, both the Bluish White and Semi Mute switches offer a buttery typing experience, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke. This provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They also both fall under the category of mild switches, which means they offer a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These qualities make them approachable to most users as they strike a safe middle-ground zone. However, the Bluish White switch is also described as having a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility where the keystroke has some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This provides a more subtle tactile feedback compared to switches with a more pronounced bump. The Semi Mute switch does not have a specific descriptor for feel beyond being mild, so it can be assumed that it offers a similar gentle typing experience.

Taking all the available information into account, both the Bluish White and Semi Mute switches offer desirable qualities depending on individual preferences. The Bluish White switch is best suited for those who value a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a stepped feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch caters to individuals who prioritize a noise-free and undisturbed typing experience, with its muted sound and mild feel. Both switches offer a buttery typing experience and fall into the mild switch category. It's important to consider personal preferences and the specific needs of the environment in which the keyboard will be used when choosing between these two switches.

Conclusion

In closing, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience and a switch with a light bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is a great choice for you. These switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, a buttery and mild feel, and a seamless typing sensation. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force, these switches provide a muted sound and a buttery and mild typing experience. Whether you prefer a poppy tactile switch or a silent linear switch, both options offer a satisfying and gratifying typing feel. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preferences and the environment in which you plan to use the switches.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Bluish White Tactile

$6.60

$4.63 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more