KTT Matcha vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and KTT Semi Mute are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Matcha is a tactile switch known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, making it a joy to type on. Furthermore, its long pole stem ensures a clean and satisfying bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. Despite its silent operation, this linear switch offers a gratifying typing feel with its advanced dampening technology. With its buttery and mild characteristics, the Semi Mute switch provides a more subdued and neutral typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the switch that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Semi Mute share a similar composition, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who wish to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing, creating visually appealing effects.
While both switches employ the same housing material, it's important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ within a switch, the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel when the key is pressed down and bottomed out. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound generated when a key is released. Thus, the choice of housing material for each component can have distinct effects on different aspects of the keyboard experience.
In summary, the KTT Matcha and KTT Semi Mute share common features in their housing materials. The utilization of polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings contributes to a sharper sound profile, enhanced resonance, and a higher pitch. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the optimal utilization of RGB lighting. However, the potential difference in housing materials for the top and bottom housings within each switch leads to varying impacts on key press and release sounds.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Matcha switch has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, meaning it requires a gentle press to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Semi Mute switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. While the Matcha switch maintains its lightness throughout the full keystroke, with a bottom out force of 45 grams, the Semi Mute switch becomes noticeably heavier with a bottom out force of 58 grams. Therefore, for those seeking a lighter typing experience, particularly for extended periods of time, the Matcha switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push is desired, the Semi Mute switch, with its higher bottom out force, would cater to those preferences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Matcha or the Semi Mute, you can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its clacky sound. It produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is known for its muted sound. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. The sound of the Semi Mute switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more peaceful typing experience, especially for those who value a noise-free environment. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a variety of qualities. It is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. The stepped feel implies that the switch has two stages, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The snappy nature of the Matcha switch means that it is super responsive, offering a typing experience that feels more alive. The switch is also accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Matcha switch is feathery, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue. It is also described as having a subtle typing feel and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Meanwhile, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as having a buttery and mild feel. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The mild characteristics of the Semi Mute switch offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced qualities. Its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound and a variety of tactile qualities, catering to those who enjoy a crisp and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch offers a muted sound and a buttery, mild feel, appealing to those who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience. While they differ in these qualities, both switches have their own merits and are suitable for different preferences and environments.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha would be your go-to choice. These switches offer a comfortable and snappy tactility, making typing feel more alive and responsive. However, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute switches would be better suited for you. With their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, these switches provide a gratifying and buttery typing feel, along with a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Ultimately, the decision between the Matcha and Semi Mute switches comes down to your personal preferences for tactile feedback and noise level during typing.
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