Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the KTT Semi Mute both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a distinct typing experience that is smooth and seamless. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute, despite its name, offers a completely silent operation with advanced dampening technology for a noise-free environment. While the Lightning Silver V3 is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched', the Semi Mute is labeled as 'Buttery' and 'Muted'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and KTT Semi Mute both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, providing a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through the housing. Overall, the use of polycarbonate in both switches offers a consistent and appealing sound and visual experience for users.
However, despite their similarities in housing material, there may be differences in the overall design and construction of the Lightning Silver V3 and Semi Mute switches. These differences could impact the typing experience, such as the feel of pressing down on a key or releasing it. While both switches benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, the design choices made by each manufacturer may result in unique tactile feedback and sound profiles. Therefore, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
In conclusion, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and KTT Semi Mute both offer the benefits of polycarbonate housing materials, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile suitable for RGB lighting setups. However, subtle differences in design and construction may lead to variations in typing experience between the two switches. Ultimately, users should consider their preferences for key feel and sound when choosing between the Lightning Silver V3 and Semi Mute switches, as these factors can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it can be seen that both switches fall within the medium range of force. The Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams. Similarly, the Lightning Silver V3 has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 58 grams. Despite these differences, both switches offer a medium level of force required for typing. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the KTT Semi Mute switch may be more suitable, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the Everglide Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces should be considered based on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Semi Mute being on the longer end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch lives up to its name by offering a muted and quiet operation, perfect for those looking for a noise-free typing environment. While the Lightning Silver V3 offers a more vibrant and distinct sound, the Semi Mute provides a subtle and gentle typing noise, catering to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. The mild characteristics of the Semi Mute switch provide a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users who prefer a more approachable feel. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing feel, with the Lightning Silver V3 focusing on smoothness and the Semi Mute emphasizing fluidity.
Overall, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. While the Lightning Silver V3 provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth feel, the Semi Mute offers a muted and quiet operation with a buttery typing sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize sound clarity or a noise-free typing experience, as well as the typing feel you prefer, both switches deliver their unique characteristics ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Everglide or KTT switch, you can expect similar levels of quality and performance based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing experience, opt for the Lightning Silver V3. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent operation with a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology for a noise-free environment, the KTT Semi Mute may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and typing feel or desire a quiet and comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your keyboard needs.
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