KTT Miaowu vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, they offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Miaowu switch, known for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem, offers a 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, with a 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished' typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a bouncy and clacky feel or a subdued and buttery smooth typing experience, each switch has its unique appeal. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Miaowu and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material means that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic experience when using either switch.
In contrast, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches, with the Miaowu potentially offering a more muted and smoother typing sound compared to the Semi-Silent Linear.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing materials in switches like the Miaowu and Semi-Silent Linear can significantly impact how they feel and sound during use. Ultimately, users may prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Semi-Silent Linear, depending on their personal preferences.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Miaowu is 50 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Miaowu switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, as some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Miaowu while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Semi-Silent Linear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the Miaowu switch is slightly shorter, providing a slightly faster feel compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. If you prefer a more instantaneous response, the Miaowu may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Semi-Silent Linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar benefits in terms of travel distance, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Miaowu linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch produces a subdued sound, offering a more dampened and subtle typing experience. While the Miaowu switch provides a more pronounced and percussive sound, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter and more neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments. It is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the KTT Miaowu is known for its bouncy and spring-like feedback sensation, giving users a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience, falling in the safe middle-ground zone for most users. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as snappy and buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. While the Miaowu switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound and a mild, snappy feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Semi-Silent Linear switch being a quieter option for those seeking a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a bouncy and lively feel with a clacky sound, the Miaowu switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, along with a smooth and buttery typing experience with a semi-silent and subdued sound, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for key feel, sound profile, and actuation force to enhance your typing experience.
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