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Bsun Pine vs. KTT Semi Mute

An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and KTT Semi Mute offer distinct features for different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile option, known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct feedback and fast action for a no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is a linear switch that boasts advanced dampening technology for a silent operation, perfect for those who prioritize a quiet environment and smooth typing feel. While the BSUN Pine is accented and snappy, the KTT Semi Mute is buttery and muted. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

45g

Actuation force

43g

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

58g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.60 mm

Total travel

3.40 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

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

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

15mm spring

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the KTT Semi Mute, we can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. However, while the Pine also has a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.

The contrasting housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the KTT Semi Mute highlight how the choice of material can influence the sound profile of mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound, the Pine's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how varying materials can produce unique typing experiences and sound profiles.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Pine and the KTT Semi Mute offer users a choice in sound profile and typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Pine creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, while the Semi Mute's dual polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and resonance. Users who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Semi Mute, while those looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile may favor the Pine. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced.

Weight

The Bsun Pine tactile switch and KTT Semi Mute linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Pine has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams, making it slightly more resistant to triggering keystrokes. However, the Pine also has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Semi Mute has a lighter 58 grams, indicating that the Pine requires more pressure to fully press down the key. In terms of weight, the Pine would be considered the heavier option, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's slightly lighter forces may be preferred by individuals looking for a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Pine being heavier and the Semi Mute providing a lighter touch for users to choose based on their preferences.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Pine has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute. The Pine's 3.4 mm distance may be preferred by those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers, who benefit from shorter travel distances. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's 4 mm travel distance might appeal to individuals who enjoy a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer distance. Ultimately, the decision will determine the type of typing experience one desires, with the shorter Pine offering a quicker and more responsive feel, and the longer Semi Mute providing a more deliberate and satisfying key press.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.

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.

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

In terms of sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch offers a sharp and direct feedback, resulting in a moderately loud typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed to produce a muted sound, making it significantly quieter than the Pine switch. The Semi Mute switch is ideal for those who prefer a noise-free typing environment, especially for late-night use.

Moving on to the feel, the Pine tactile switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a distinct tactile bump that offers a snappy and responsive typing experience. On the contrary, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a buttery and mild typing feel, providing a smooth and gentle keystroke experience. The Semi Mute switch aims to deliver a comfortable and gratifying typing sensation for users who value a soft and fluid typing experience.

Overall, if you enjoy a sharp tactile feedback with a moderately loud sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be the preferred choice. However, if you prioritize a noise-free and smooth typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you get a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a sharp tactile bump with direct feedback and quick actuation, the Pine switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free typing experience with a smooth and quiet operation, especially for late-night sessions, the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and responsiveness or a silent and comfortable typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best fits your typing needs.

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