Bsun Olive vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and KTT Semi Mute stand out for their unique characteristics. The Bsun Olive switch is a tactile switch known for its resonant, deep sound, pronounced tactile feedback, and sharp bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is a linear switch designed for a noise-free environment with its completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology. While the Olive switch offers an invigorating and sharp typing experience, the Semi Mute switch provides a mild and buttery feel. Both switches have their strengths, catering 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the KTT Semi Mute lies in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Olive features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials leads to a noticeable difference in sound characteristics between the two switches.
While the Olive's POM housing material provides a unique and pleasing sound profile, the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute offers a clearer and more resonant sound experience. In terms of aesthetic appeal, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for users looking to customize their keyboards. The use of different housing materials not only impacts the sound produced by each switch but also influences the overall look and feel of the keyboard.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Olive and KTT Semi Mute aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience. The qualities of each housing material - POM for the Olive and polycarbonate for the Semi Mute - contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound profile with the Olive or a sharper, crisper sound with the Semi Mute, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile for the user's keyboard setup.
Weight
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Semi Mute linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Olive requires 65 grams, which is heavier than the 58 grams needed for the Semi Mute. This means that while both switches have a medium feel overall, the Olive will require a bit more force to press down completely. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, providing a satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the Olive has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Semi Mute's 4 mm. The Olive's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Semi Mute's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Semi Mute being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is well-known for its resonant and deep sound that truly sets it apart. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch lives up to its name by providing a muted and quiet typing experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While the Olive offers a more pronounced and distinctive sound, the Semi Mute provides a softer and quieter typing experience, catering to those who prefer a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a tactile typing sensation that is both satisfying and immersive. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Olive switch offers a strong tactile bump and crisp bottom-out, while the Semi Mute switch delivers a comfortable and gratifying typing feel without sacrificing on the overall typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that both the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Olive excels in providing a distinct tactile feedback and a resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute focuses on delivering a quiet and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile and resonant typing experience (Olive) or a quiet and buttery typing feel (Semi Mute).
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Olive switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force and pronounced tactile feedback might be the right choice for you. However, if you value a noise-free environment and a smooth typing experience with moderate force requirements, the Semi Mute switch with its silent operation and linear actuation might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in sound and feel when typing. Happy typing!
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