Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Semi Mute. The MX Black is known for its classic textured smoothness, which has been further perfected by Cherry's Hyperglide tooling. Typing on these switches produces a deep sound profile, making them ideal for those who enjoy a low-pitched and textured typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches, despite their completely silent operation, offer a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. This provides a buttery and mild typing feel, perfect for those who desire a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night sessions. While these general descriptions can help you in your decision-making process, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Semi Mute differ in terms of the top and bottom housings. The MX Black utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Semi Mute employs polycarbonate for both. The use of nylon in the MX Black's top housing creates a softer and more absorbent material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, accentuated by its stiffness. This makes the Semi Mute better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, as stated in its description.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of both switches follow the same pattern. The MX Black's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more absorbent nature. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with better resonance. Aesthetically, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting, as mentioned in the description.
Despite the differences in materials, both switches have similar attributes in terms of the impact of their housing materials. Pressing down on the switch will predominantly reveal the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific materials differ, the overall impact on the switch's sound and feel can be comparable between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are several key differences to consider. In terms of weight, the MX Black is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This heavier weight may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and require a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch offers a lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and need to type for extended periods of time without fatigue. While the MX Black switch provides a heavier and more tactile feel, the Semi Mute switch offers a medium weight that still provides a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's personal preference and typing needs.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same experience, ensuring that you will get similar results regardless of which one you choose. Therefore, there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Semi Mute switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This can create a satisfying and familiar typing experience for those who prefer a deeper sound. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is designed to be completely silent, despite its name. It produces a muted sound, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This is particularly appealing for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. Additionally, the Semi Mute switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it offers a moderate level of noise suitable for various settings, be it at home or at work. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch also depends on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used. Overall, while the MX Black switch provides a deep sound, the Semi Mute switch ensures a quiet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its textured or scratchy sensation. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, providing feedback to the typist. Some users appreciate this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Semi Mute switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable for most typists as it falls in a safe middle-ground zone. It is important to mention that the feel of a switch is subjective and may vary depending on personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black and KTT Semi Mute switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black switch provides a deep, low-pitched sound with a textured and stiff typing sensation. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch ensures a silent operation and offers a muted sound with a buttery and mild feel. These switches cater to different preferences and typing environments. If you prefer a deep, bass-heavy sound with a textured and stiff feel, the MX Black switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you value a noise-free environment and desire a smooth and gentle typing experience, the Semi Mute switch would be more appropriate. It's worth noting that while these switches offer distinct characteristics, individual variations in sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as keyboard construction and keycap selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a noise-free environment and desires undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be a great choice for you. With its completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology, these switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Additionally, the Semi Mute switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a muted sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch and enjoy a deep sound profile while typing, the Cherry MX Black switch would be more suitable for you. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a classic textured smoothness. However, it's important to note that the MX Black switch has a higher bottom out force and may require more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and KTT Semi Mute switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. Consider factors such as noise level, typing feel, and actuation force when making your decision.
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