Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Semi Mute stand out as excellent options to consider. The Gateron Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it a top choice for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute provides a completely silent operation with advanced dampening technology, perfect for creating a noise-free environment during late-night typing sessions. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Semi Mute both feature 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 use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, making these switches not only functional but visually appealing as well. However, the Jupiter Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. The difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound output of these switches.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, the Gateron Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience compared to the KTT Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, in line with the characteristics of polycarbonate material. This distinction in bottom housing material highlights how housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a switch during typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Semi Mute comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing material may lead to a variance in sound output and typing feel. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound provided by nylon or a sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Overall, both switches demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the acoustic characteristics of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch reveals some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Jupiter Red is slightly higher at 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams, making the Jupiter Red slightly lighter to activate. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Jupiter Red requiring 60 grams and the Semi Mute needing 58 grams. This means that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press the keys. Some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Semi Mute for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Red or the KTT Semi Mute, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of travel distance.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provides a muted sound, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience without sacrificing on performance. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, with the Jupiter Red being more versatile and the Semi Mute focusing on creating a noise-free environment.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and reduced friction for a refined typing feel. Similarly, the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, ensuring a seamless and gentle keystroke sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Jupiter Red boasting a wider range of descriptors indicating a potentially more varied feel compared to the Semi Mute.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Red excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a polished, creamy, silky, or mild typing feel, catering to users looking for a versatile and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute focuses on delivering a muted sound and a buttery, mild typing sensation, prioritizing a quieter environment and gentle keystrokes. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider the factors of typing experience and noise level. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing feel with a medium-heavy actuation force, along with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology for a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions, the KTT Semi Mute switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and priorities when it comes to keyboard switches.
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