Cherry MX Silent Red vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Semi Mute are two popular options to consider. The Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth and slightly heavier feel compared to the MX Red, while offering a whisper-quiet typing experience perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute, also a linear switch, boasts completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology for a noise-free typing experience, especially beneficial during late-night sessions. Both switches prioritize a quieter typing experience, but the MX Silent Red leans towards a slightly more textured feel, while the Semi Mute provides a buttery and mild typing sensation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Semi Mute, one can see that the MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Semi Mute opts for a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the MX Silent Red is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute is stiffer, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of housing material directly impacts the overall sound and feel of the keyboard switches.
While the MX Silent Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, the Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for both components. This leads to a consistent sound profile throughout the switch for the Semi Mute, with clear and resonant tones thanks to the stiffer plastic material. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red may exhibit variations in sound between the top and bottom housings, resulting in a different feel when pressing down on the key versus releasing it. Despite these differences, both housing materials are known for their ability to absorb sound and impact the overall sound experience of the keyboard.
In conclusion, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials for keyboard switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. The nylon housing of the Cherry MX Silent Red produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the KTT Semi Mute offers a sharper and crisper sound. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and resonant tone, both housing materials are known for their sound-absorbing qualities and ability to enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams. However, the MX Silent Red lacks information on its bottom out force, while the Semi Mute has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the MX Silent Red may provide a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Semi Mute. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the MX Silent Red may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Semi Mute with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the MX Silent Red offering a lighter touch and the Semi Mute providing a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the MX Silent Red provides a slightly shallower press compared to the Semi Mute. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the MX Silent Red with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the KTT Semi Mute. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 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.
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, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Semi Mute switches are described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. The MX Silent Red is noted for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, while the Semi Mute is said to have a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches in terms of sound may come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is characterized as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with a gentle touch. Depending on the user's preference for a more textured or smoother keystroke, the feel of the switch may play a significant role in their decision-making.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the KTT Semi Mute switches offer a similar muted sound profile, making them suitable options for noise-sensitive environments. The choice between the two would likely come down to the feel of the switch, with the MX Silent Red providing a more textured experience and the KTT Semi Mute offering a buttery and mild typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches are designed to provide a comfortable and gratifying typing experience, catering to individuals who prioritize a noise-free work or gaming environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your priorities. If you value a quieter typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the MX Silent Red would be the ideal choice for you. It offers a slightly heftier feel while operating silently, making it perfect for late-night typing sessions without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that provides a smooth and fluid typing sensation with a moderate sound profile, the KTT Semi Mute would be more suitable for you. It offers a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a completely silent operation or a buttery and mild typing experience.
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