Zuoce Lavender vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Lavender and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lavender switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative semi-silent design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, along with a silky smooth type feel. While the Lavender switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound quality is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound compared to the softer POM material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing, the POM material used in the Lavender offers a deep and pleasing sound profile, which is complemented by the fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound profile compared to the POM material. This difference in sound quality between the two switch models allows users to experience unique typing experiences based on their preference for sound depth and resonance.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel. While the Lavender and the Semi-Silent Linear utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing, they both offer unique typing experiences. The impact of each housing material is felt differently during key presses, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when a key is released. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, both switch options cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we can see that the Lavender switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lavender switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams while the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches offer a medium typing experience overall, but the Lavender switch leans towards a lighter feel, ideal for prolonged typing sessions, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we see that the Lavender has a travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Lavender has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear, making it the quicker option for those looking for a faster response time. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial and deliberate feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suited for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 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.
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 switch offers a sharp and percussive clacky noise with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch produces a more subdued and dampened sound, making it a quieter option that still maintains a clacky bottom-out sound. Depending on your preference for sound levels, both switches offer distinct auditory profiles that cater to different typing environments.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This results in a smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle ground for most users. With qualities like snappiness and buttery smoothness, this switch offers a balance of responsiveness and comfort for versatile typing needs.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Lavender switch excels in providing a clacky and easy-to-press typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter and more subdued typing feel that still maintains responsiveness. Depending on whether you prioritize sound levels or typing comfort, both switches offer distinctive qualities that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Lavender linear switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, you should take into account their unique characteristics. If you value smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a silky smooth feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately boils down to your personal preference and typing style.