Gateron Ink Yellow vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Semi Mute. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch known for its shorter travel distance, making it a great choice for those who want a typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It boasts a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, perfect for users who enjoy a bit of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch lives up to its name by providing completely silent operation. Designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions, the Semi Mute switch features advanced dampening technology and a linear actuation for a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Both switches offer their unique qualities and advantages, presenting a choice between clackiness and silence. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Semi Mute differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Ink Yellow utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate material for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Furthermore, the Semi Mute's clear polycarbonate housing is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through.

Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Semi Mute deliver similar results in terms of their sound profiles. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend and the Semi Mute's polycarbonate material both contribute to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While the Ink Yellow offers a slightly less sharp sound, it is not overly distinctive from the crisper sound produced by the Semi Mute. Therefore, users can expect a satisfyingly clacky sound experience from both switches.

When it comes to the overall user experience, the housing material plays a role in different aspects of the switch operation. The qualities of the bottom housing are more notable when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In this regard, the differences between the Ink Yellow's INK blend and the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in slightly varying tactile experiences. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the Ink Yellow's proprietary blend or the Semi Mute's polycarbonate, both switches will offer a distinct sound signature upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, a notable difference can be found in their respective weights. The Ink Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Semi Mute's lighter force of 43 grams. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Yellow switch is again heavier at 67 grams, while the Semi Mute requires a force of 58 grams to bottom out.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be a suitable option as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for smoother and effortless keystrokes, making it more ideal for prolonged typing sessions or prolonged gaming. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow switch. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, giving typists a sense of satisfaction and responsiveness with each keystroke.

Overall, the choice between the Ink Yellow and the Semi Mute ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Those who prioritize a lighter switch would prefer the Semi Mute, while individuals who enjoy a heavier and more forceful typing experience would find the Ink Yellow switch more suitable. Regardless of the chosen switch, both options offer medium actuation forces, which ensure that users will achieve similar results in terms of performance and responsiveness.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference between the two switches may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The Ink Yellow's 3.5 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value quick response times. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's 4 mm travel distance is closer to the traditional standard and may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own advantages, and ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is known for its pleasant smoothness and clackiness, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a more responsive keystroke. In terms of sound, the Ink Yellow is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. It produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed.

On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is specifically designed for a noise-free environment. Despite the name, these switches operate silently and utilize advanced dampening technology to minimize noise. This makes them perfect for late-night typing sessions without disturbing others. The Semi Mute switches also have a linear actuation and provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel.

In terms of sound, the Semi Mute switch is described as having a muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, effectively reducing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Similar to the Ink Yellow, the Semi Mute switch also has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement.

In terms of feel, the Ink Yellow switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe and middle-ground zone of qualities. It provides a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is known for its buttery feel, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Ink Yellow, the Semi Mute switch also offers a mild typing experience with approachable qualities in terms of sound and feel.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow and KTT Semi Mute switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Yellow provides a clacky and slightly louder typing experience, while the Semi Mute offers a more muted and silent operation. In terms of feel, the Ink Yellow provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the Semi Mute offers a buttery and smooth keystroke sensation. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the choice depending on personal preferences and the desired noise level.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a typing experience similar to that of a laptop or a standard mechanical keyboard and enjoys a smooth and clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is a great choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and polished feel, you can expect a comfortable and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force and buttery feel, this switch offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Despite the "Semi Mute" name, these switches are completely silent and perfect for those who value a quieter keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the KTT Semi Mute will depend on your preference for sound and feel, so consider these factors when choosing the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more