KTT Kang White vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the KTT Semi Mute both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kang White is renowned for its poppy linear switch, providing a dazzling typing sound that adds a satisfying auditory experience. Its self-lubricating material also grants an unparalleled smoothness during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Semi Mute, despite its name, operates completely silently, making it ideal for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute delivers a comfortable and gratifying typing sensation. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the KTT Semi Mute share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness and ability to resonate more clearly. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and visual aesthetics when using the Kang White and Semi Mute switches.
However, when it comes to their bottom housings, the Kang White features a nylon material while the Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Kang White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute aligns with its top housing properties, creating a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction between their bottom housings affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches when pressed.
Overall, the differences in bottom housing materials between the Kang White and the Semi Mute result in variations in the sound profiles and tactile feedback experienced when typing. While the Kang White's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute complements its overall sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches, however, share the common benefit of polycarbonate in their top housing, providing clarity and resonance to the sound produced when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have a bottom out force of 58 grams, which means that once pressed all the way down, they require the same amount of force. However, when it comes to actuation force, the Kang White switch is slightly heavier, requiring 45 grams of force compared to the Semi Mute switch's 43 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the 43-gram actuation force of the Semi Mute switch may be more suitable. This lighter actuation force allows for smoother and faster keystrokes, making it ideal for users who often type for extended periods or engage in intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Kang White switch. With its slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, users can enjoy a satisfying push and tactile feedback while typing.
Overall, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer a medium bottom out force, providing a similar level of resistance once fully pressed. The slight difference in actuation force ensures that users can select the switch that aligns better with their individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience provided by both switches. Neither switch has a shorter or longer travel distance compared to the other, as they are equal in this aspect.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
The KTT Kang White linear switch is best known for its dazzling typing sound, characterized as low-pitched and neutral. These switches provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the self-lubricating material of the Kang White switch ensures an unparalleled smoothness during typing.
On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, despite its completely silent operation, offers a muted typing sound. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, thanks to advanced dampening technology. Similar to the Kang White, the Semi Mute switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Kang White switch does not have any specific descriptors mentioned in the given information. However, the Semi Mute switch is described as buttery and mild. A buttery switch indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Being mild, the Semi Mute switch offers a more gentle typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White linear switch stands out with its dazzling low-pitched sound and self-lubricating material for unmatched smoothness during typing. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed for a noise-free environment, providing a muted sound and a comfortable typing feel described as buttery and mild. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences, with the Kang White offering a more lively and poppy sound, while the Semi Mute ensures a quieter and satisfying typing experience. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its self-lubricating material, it provides a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches deliver a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize the sound and smoothness of the Kang White or the quietness and comfort of the Semi Mute. In the end, both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and would be suitable for most intents and purposes, making them suitable for beginners and advanced users alike, whether you plan to use them at home or work.