Gateron Mini i vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that offers gentle tactility in each keystroke without sacrificing the satisfying feedback of typing. This switch is known for its fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office environments where quiet professionalism is essential. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The switch offers a silky smooth typing experience without feeling over-polished. Both switches have their unique qualities, with the Gateron Mini i being bouncy and easy-to-press, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is subdued and buttery. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the nylon material ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Gateron Mini i features nylon, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear uses polycarbonate. This contrast in materials results in a noticeable difference in sound profiles between the two switches. The Mini i's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a softer typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Mini i and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear differ in their choice of top housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the properties of nylon and polycarbonate. The Mini i provides a softer and more absorbent sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a sharper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a crisper, clearer sound, both switches cater to different preferences in sound profiles while maintaining a consistent typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's unknown actuation force, making it the lighter option. However, the Semi-Silent Linear has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Mini i has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Semi-Silent Linear the heavier option in terms of bottom out force. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Mini i, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the actuation and bottom out forces playing a significant role in the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Mini i. The difference may not be significant to most users, but it can affect the feel and response of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker responses, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for some individuals. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the intended use of the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound level, making it suitable for various environments, whether at work or home. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a more subdued sound, with a whisper-quiet topping-out noise while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. This makes it a good option for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the feedback of a mechanical switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is often described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, or stepped, providing a range of tactile feedback options for users. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a milder typing experience that is approachable to most users, along with a snappy response that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, it boasts a buttery and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a more neutral sound profile and a range of tactile feedback options, making it a versatile choice for different typing preferences. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter sound profile with a smooth and responsive typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options that can cater to a variety of users. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a more tactile feedback sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, or stepped typing experience with a neutral sound profile for a professional office setting, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and enjoy a mild, snappy, buttery, or polished typing experience with a subdued sound profile for a more innovative and quieter co-working environment, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and work environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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