TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Semi Mute stand out as top contenders. The Gold Red Pro is renowned for its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any setting. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches from KTT, despite their name, provide a completely silent operation, ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. Both switches offer a linear feel, making typing comfortable and satisfying. 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
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Semi Mute, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, where the Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Semi Mute opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing to maintain a consistent sharp and clear sound throughout.
The contrasting choice of housing materials for the bottom housing between the Gold Red Pro and the Semi Mute plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute maintains a sharp and clear sound profile. This difference in materials creates a distinction in the typing experience between the two switches, with the Gold Red Pro offering a more muted and rounded sound compared to the Semi Mute's sharper and crisper sound.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Semi Mute feature polycarbonate top housings, their choice of bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings results in a unique typing feel for each switch – with the Gold Red Pro offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, and the Semi Mute providing a consistently sharp and clear sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Despite these differences, the switches share the common ability to showcase RGB lighting through their translucent polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both have an actuation force of 43 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro has an unknown amount while the Semi Mute has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Semi Mute with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the force required, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Those who prefer a faster response time may opt for the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the KTT Semi Mute with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different options for users based on their personal preferences and typing or gaming style. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich typing experience that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch delivers a muted and neutral sound, ideal for those seeking a quiet typing environment. Both switches are suitable for various settings, with the Gold Red Pro being more versatile in sound characteristics while the Semi Mute focuses on creating a noise-free typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal sound. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switch provides a buttery and mild typing feel, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. While both switches aim for a comfortable typing experience, the Gold Red Pro emphasizes a polished and refined feel, while the Semi Mute focuses on a buttery smoothness for effortless typing sessions.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch stands out for its versatile sound profile and polished typing feel, making it a reliable choice for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch excels in providing a noise-free and buttery smooth typing experience, catering to individuals who value a quiet and effortless typing feel. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you will achieve similar results in terms of performance and comfort regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, keep in mind that the Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice for a versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile and smooth key press. It is suitable for any setting, whether for gaming, work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch caters to those who prioritize a silent typing environment with its advanced dampening technology and linear actuation. If you value a noise-free typing experience, especially during late-night sessions, the Semi Mute switch would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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