Zuoce Lavender vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Zuoce Lavender and the KTT Semi Mute. The Lavender switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, and offers a crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, operates silently and is perfect for those who prefer a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. The Semi Mute features advanced dampening technology and linear actuation for a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Each switch has its unique qualities, with the Lavender being easy-to-press and clacky, while the Semi Mute is described as buttery, mild, muted, and neutral. 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
48g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and KTT Semi Mute keyboards both offer unique housing materials for their top and bottom components. While the Lavender features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, the Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for both components, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Lavender housing provides a more subdued typing experience, while the polycarbonate in the Semi Mute leads to a more vibrant and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of the Semi Mute's polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. On the other hand, the opaque nature of the POM housing in the Lavender may not allow for such lighting effects, but still offers a sleek and modern look. Both keyboards cater to different preferences when it comes to the visual aspect of housing materials, with the Lavender focusing on a more understated design and the Semi Mute offering a more flashy and customizable option.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Lavender provides a softer and quieter typing experience due to its POM housing, the Semi Mute offers a more crisp and pronounced sound thanks to its polycarbonate construction. Both keyboards excel in different areas, with the Lavender catering to those who prefer a more subdued typing experience, and the Semi Mute appealing to users who enjoy a louder and more tactile response from their keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Semi Mute is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Lavender provides a medium-light typing experience, whereas the Semi Mute offers a medium resistance. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Semi Mute would be the better option. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Lavender more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the KTT Semi Mute linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast key presses. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch provides a clacky and satisfying typing experience with a sharp and percussive sound. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a muted and quiet operation, perfect for those who require a noise-free environment. The Semi Mute switch's sound profile is neutral, making it versatile for various situations. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced sound like the Lavender or a quieter typing experience like the Semi Mute.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience with minimal force required to activate each key. Conversely, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. The Semi Mute switch also offers a mild typing feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most users. Depending on your preference for a lighter and smoother typing experience or a more gentle and approachable feel, you may lean towards either the Lavender or Semi Mute switch.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, coupled with an easy-to-press typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch excels in providing a noise-free environment with its muted sound and buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting between them will depend on whether you prioritize sound satisfaction and responsiveness (Lavender) or a quiet and smooth typing experience (Semi Mute). However, regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a crisp and clacky sound with a smooth typing experience, the Lavender switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent operation and a buttery, mild feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal typing style and environment. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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