Kailh Box White vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your specific needs, look no further than the Kailh Box White and the KTT Semi Mute. The Box White is a clicky switch that offers maximum audio feedback, making each keystroke feel more satisfying. With a high-pitched crunch and accented tactility, typing on the Box White feels like stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, operates silently, offering a noise-free environment suitable for late-night typing sessions. It features a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, providing a comfortable and gratifying typing experience. Categorized as 'Resonant', 'High-pitched', 'Crunchy', and 'Polished', the Box White offers a unique auditory and tactile feedback, whereas the Semi Mute, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Neutral', focuses on providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. However, to make the best decision for your specific preferences, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the KTT Semi Mute both use polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. So, in terms of sound and aesthetics, the top housing materials are the same for both switches, resulting in similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Box White uses nylon while the Semi Mute uses polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches will differ slightly, with the Box White offering a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Semi Mute.
It is interesting to note that while the top and bottom housings have different materials in each switch, the impact of these materials varies depending on how the switch is used. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the impact of the top housing is more noticeable in the sound produced. Therefore, the difference in bottom housing material between the Box White and the Semi Mute may result in varying experiences during the typing process, particularly when it comes to the sound produced when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams, slightly heavier than the 43 grams of actuation force required by the KTT Semi Mute. Similarly, the Kailh Box White also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the 58 grams of the Semi Mute. These variances in force result in a slightly heavier typing experience with the Box White switch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the KTT Semi Mute would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh Box White switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range of forces, providing a balanced typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box White switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute switch. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. Shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Box White switch would be a better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, the longer travel distance of the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback and distinctive tactile feel. When typing on these switches, you will experience a sound profile that can be described as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy. The sound is clean, sharp, and reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. The tactile feedback is accented, providing a satisfying sensation when pressing the keys. In terms of feel, the Box White switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed for those who prefer a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. Despite being named "Semi Mute", these switches operate silently. They are equipped with advanced dampening technology to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Semi Mute switch has a linear actuation, offering a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. In terms of sound, the Semi Mute switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The actuation force requirement and sound profile of the Semi Mute switch are neutral, making it suitable for most purposes.
Comparing the two switches, the Box White switch is clicky and provides a more pronounced tactile and auditory experience. It is suited for those who enjoy a louder and more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch offers a completely silent operation, making it ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a comfortable typing feel. While the two switches differ in their sound and feel, they both offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize maximum audio feedback and enjoy a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, you can expect a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and a pronounced tactile feel. The Box White switch is best suited for those who appreciate a resonant, high-pitched sound profile and a polished, sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the perfect fit. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer completely silent operation. The Semi Mute switch provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel, characterized by a muted sound and a buttery, smooth keystroke experience.
Ultimately, your decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. Consider whether you prioritize maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, or if a noise-free and undisturbed typing experience is more important to you. Either way, both switches offer unique qualities that are sure to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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