KTT Matcha vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Matcha is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing. Its long pole stem ensures a clean and distinctly satisfying bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative design. Despite its semi-silent label, it maintains a clacky bottom-out sound while providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth, striking a balance between being polished and not over-polished. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, let's delve deeper to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it visually appealing, especially when used with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate material, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear uses nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to its overall sound profile, creating a sharper and crisper sound when the keys are bottomed out. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
It is important to note that the housing materials of the top and bottom impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Matcha and the Semi-Silent Linear share the polycarbonate top housing, the difference in the bottom housing materials will lead to variations in their overall typing experience and sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are notable differences. The KTT Matcha has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is unavailable, so it is unclear how it compares to the Matcha in terms of lightness or heaviness. However, the Matcha's bottom out force of 45 grams suggests that it requires slightly more force to fully press down the key. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance.
Considering weight in choosing a switch is important for different preferences. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue, which is beneficial for work or long gaming sessions. These individuals would likely find the Matcha switch more favorable due to its lighter actuation force. Conversely, some users prefer a stronger push feel in order to have a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable. Although the exact actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, its higher bottom out force suggests that it may provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Matcha.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, and its bottom out force is also lighter. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, on the other hand, may offer a moderately heavier typing experience with its higher bottom out force. By considering these factors, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Matcha switch the longer option and the Semi-Silent Linear switch the shorter option.
The difference in travel distance may not seem significant at first glance, but it can play a role in the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers, for instance, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. The shorter distance means that the switch doesn't have to travel as far before registering the keystroke, resulting in quicker actions. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear with its shorter travel distance would be the better option for you.
However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt for some individuals. Some typists or gamers may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance as it provides a sense of depth and a more satisfying keystroke feel. If you fall into this category and value a hearty typing experience, the KTT Matcha tactile switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice.
Ultimately, whether you opt for the KTT Matcha or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing/gaming style. Both switches offer different travel distances, but they are designed to cater to different needs.
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 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is best described as clacky. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as subdued. While it is not completely silent, it offers a dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is also described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for a variety of purposes.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle typing experience. It has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a mild tactile sensation. The longer or dual-staged springs in this switch also make it highly responsive, giving a lively typing experience. Moreover, the Matcha switch is accented, which means it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. It is also feathery, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue. Overall, the Matcha switch provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience with a gentle resistance and a light typing feel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished in terms of feel. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Similar to the Matcha switch, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is also snappy, providing a responsive typing experience. It is buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch has a clacky sound with a clean bottom-out sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. In terms of feel, the Matcha switch has a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, then the KTT Matcha tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Matcha offers a stepped, snappy, and accented feel, providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, it produces a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a silky smooth type feel while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. The Semi-Silent Linear offers a mild and snappy feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience without being overwhelming. Furthermore, it has a buttery sound that provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Overall, both switches have their strengths depending on your preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your desired actuation force, feel, and sound profile.
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