KTT Mint vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Mint and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two excellent options, each offering its own unique set of features. The Mint is a linear switch loved for its satisfyingly smooth feel and poppy thockiness, giving it a light and fleeting typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a similar typing experience to the classic MX Red but operates silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Cherry MX Silent Red, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch.
However, where the switches differ is in their choice of top housing material. The Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of the material. This contrast in top housing materials indicates that users can expect a noticeable difference in sound when typing on these switches, with the Mint offering a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the MX Silent Red.
When considering how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed in each switch, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing material for each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. While both the KTT Mint and the Cherry MX Silent Red offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, users can expect a similar depth and fullness in sound due to the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we see that both have an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown. In terms of weight, the Mint switch is lighter overall compared to the MX Silent Red, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The MX Silent Red, on the other hand, offers a more substantial typing experience due to its potentially heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide a medium-light actuation force, which ensures a responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch is 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Mint. The difference may seem minimal, but it can affect how the keystrokes feel and the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance on the MX Silent Red may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance on the KTT Mint may provide a more comfortable feel for those who prefer a bit more depth to their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch produces a muted and thocky sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for noise-sensitive areas. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Mint leaning towards a more neutral tone while the MX Silent Red focuses on a muted and thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience due to its refined finish and reduced friction. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile sensation that some users may prefer over a smoother typing experience. While the Mint switch provides a balanced and polished feel, the MX Silent Red switch offers a textured and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit more feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Mint linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mint switch provides a neutral and polished typing experience with a low-pitched sound, while the MX Silent Red switch delivers a muted and textured feel with a thocky sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smoother, more polished typing experience (Mint) or a more tactile and textured feel (MX Silent Red).
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mint linear switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, you should opt for the Mint if you prioritize a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness and light feel. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a medium-light bottom out force. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience for noise-sensitive environments while maintaining a slightly heftier feel, the MX Silent Red would be the better choice for you. This switch operates silently and offers a muted sound profile with a thocky sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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