TKC Kiwi vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The TKC Kiwi is well-known for its tactile feedback, providing a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. This enhances the typing experience by giving users a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a different experience with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound. It provides a silky smooth type feel without being over-polished. While these general pointers give an idea of what each switch has to offer, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear differ in the materials used for their top housing. The Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE, a newer material known for its bright sound signature and resonant clacks. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is also ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Although both materials enhance the sound of the switches, the Kiwi's UHWMPE offers a brighter and more resonant sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Kiwi incorporates UHWMPE, while the Semi-Silent Linear adopts nylon. UHWMPE, being a newer material, offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. In contrast, the classic nylon material found in the Semi-Silent Linear creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer texture allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the brighter sound produced by UHWMPE. Thus, the choice between these two bottom housing materials will depend on whether one prefers a brighter or deeper sound experience while typing.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch contribute differently to the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. With the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing, users can expect a bright and resonant bottom-out experience. In contrast, the nylon material used in the Semi-Silent Linear's bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing material impacts the sound when a key is released. While the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi provides a bright and resonant sound profile when the key is released, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite the differences, both switches promise an enhanced typing experience due to the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, some differences and similarities become apparent. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, providing a medium-heavy push feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force is not specified. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium in terms of resistance.
Weight is an important consideration for keyboard enthusiasts, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and experience. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Kiwi, as its actuation force is on the lighter side. This allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive finger fatigue. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, on the other hand, does not disclose its actuation force, but since the bottom out force is the same as the Kiwi, it is safe to assume that it would provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required.
However, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those seeking a more tactile and pronounced feedback, the Kiwi with its medium-heavy actuation force may be a better choice. It provides a greater resistance and feedback when pressing down the keys. The Semi-Silent Linear, with its undisclosed actuation force, may not offer the same level of tactile feedback as the Kiwi.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a known actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch lacks information on its actuation force but shares the same bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Kiwi providing a lighter and more tactile feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear's experience is unknown.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have a relatively shallow travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, indicating that they provide a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke, the TKC Kiwi with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better option. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, while others may appreciate the increased responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Kiwi switch is known for its low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Kiwi is described as having a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a subdued sound. While not completely silent, it produces a dampened sound when pressed and offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Like the Kiwi, the Semi-Silent Linear also has a neutral sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Kiwi switch is characterized as having a stepped and accented tactile feel. Stepped switches provide a two-stage typing experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Accented switches, in the case of the Kiwi, offer a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild and snappy typing experience. This means it offers a more gentle typing experience and is super responsive. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is also described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Like the Kiwi, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is also polished for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, stepped and accented tactile feel, and polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound, a mild and snappy typing experience, and a buttery feel. Despite their differences, both switches have a neutral sound profile and are polished for reduced friction. Depending on individual preferences and requirements, users can choose either switch to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top, along with a snappy sound profile, then the TKC Kiwi tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box, thanks to their light factory lubrication. The Kiwi switches also have a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great option. These switches provide a silky smooth type feel without being overly polished. They have a subdued sound, which is slightly dampened compared to most switches, making it more subtle and suitable for quieter environments. The Semi-Silent Linear switches also offer a mild, snappy, and buttery typing experience, making them approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch depends on your preferences regarding the tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Consider your priorities and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard to make the best decision that suits your needs.
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