Jwick Ginger Milk vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Semi Mute. The Ginger Milk switches are best known for their soft and pastel aesthetic, which is a reflection of the smooth and approachable typing experience they offer. With a silky push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile, these linear switches are categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery'. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches from KTT, despite their name, are completely silent in operation. Tailor-made for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions, these linear switches feature advanced dampening technology for a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Neutral', they offer a versatile option for keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the KTT Semi Mute share some similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer similar sound profiles and visual effects when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Ginger Milk and the Semi Mute differ. The Ginger Milk utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating 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. Conversely, the Semi Mute uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sharper and crisper sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so the choice of material affects the typing experience.
In summary, while both the Ginger Milk and the Semi Mute share a polycarbonate top housing that produces similar sound profiles and visual effects, their bottom housings differ. The Ginger Milk's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sharper sound profile. The choice of housing material in the bottom housing affects the typing experience, whereas the top housing primarily influences the sound when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ginger Milk has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams. This means that the Ginger Milk requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ginger Milk is also slightly heavier with a force of 63.5 grams, while the Semi Mute has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Ginger Milk can be considered medium-heavy, while the Semi Mute is simply medium.
Considering weights, it is important to note that lighter switches like the Semi Mute can be advantageous for those who prefer longer typing or gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for quicker keystrokes with less effort, which can be beneficial for tasks that require sustained typing or quick reactions during gaming. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience and opt for switches with heavier forces. The Ginger Milk, with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, provides a stronger push feel that may be preferred by those seeking a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Ginger Milk and Semi Mute switches differ slightly, with the Ginger Milk being slightly heavier in both aspects. However, if a lighter and more effortless typing experience is desired, the Semi Mute with its lower forces could be a suitable choice. If a more substantial and tactile typing experience is preferred, the Ginger Milk's heavier forces would provide a satisfying push feel.
Travel distance
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches have shorter travel distances than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The Ginger Milk is slightly shorter than the Semi Mute, making it an option for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying feeling of depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk switch offers a muted and snappy sound profile. It is described as having a moderate sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is completely silent, despite its name. It is described as producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, thanks to its advanced dampening technology. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they are suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or at work. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and KTT Semi Mute switches offer a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. This means it provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel.
Taking into account the available information, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch offers a soft and pastel typing experience with a silky smooth and approachable push feel. It has a muted and snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a completely silent operation and features advanced dampening technology for a softer and quieter sound. It offers a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with a buttery and mild experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and provide an enjoyable typing experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a similar result in terms of sound and feel, you can expect comparable qualities from both switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology, you can enjoy a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Additionally, the Semi Mute switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a medium actuation force suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you value a smooth and approachable push feel, along with a muted and snappy sound profile, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Ginger Milk offers a slightly heavier medium-heavy feel. Its soft and pastel aesthetics complement the typing experience, providing a silky smooth and enjoyable keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different preferences. The Ginger Milk switch is perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and a unique sound profile, while the Semi Mute switch caters to individuals seeking a noise-free environment. Consider your typing style, preferred sound level, and personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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