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Outemu Gold vs. KTT Semi Mute

An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Gold and the KTT Semi Mute stand out as top contenders for different reasons. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying sound feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it ideal for creating a noise-free environment during late-night sessions. The Gold switch offers a tactile experience, while the Semi Mute switch provides a smooth and quiet typing feel. 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

60g

Bottom-out force

58g

Pre-travel

1.80 mm

Pre-travel

1.60 mm

Total travel

4.00 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

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

15mm spring

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Gold and the KTT Semi Mute, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Gold differs with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Semi Mute maintains consistency with polycarbonate for its bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile throughout the switch.

The contrasting nature of the housing materials between the Outemu Gold and the KTT Semi Mute lies in their bottom housings. The Gold utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference highlights the impact that the choice of housing material can have on the overall sound profile of a switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, it is the variation in their bottom housing materials that sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics.

When considering how the top and bottom housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of a switch, it becomes evident that the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction underscores the importance of selecting housing materials that complement each other to achieve a desired sound profile. Ultimately, both the Outemu Gold and the KTT Semi Mute demonstrate how different housing materials can influence the auditory and tactile experience of using a mechanical keyboard switch.

Weight

Comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can see that they have relatively similar actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Semi Mute switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both fall in the medium range in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Semi Mute switch would be the slightly lighter option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Outemu Gold switch may be the slightly heavier choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces that cater to a variety of typing preferences.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows users to expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Gold clicky switch or the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance when using either.

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 Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click with each key press, offering a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch lives up to its name by providing a muted sound profile that minimizes noise, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet typing environment. Unlike the Gold switch, the Semi Mute switch offers a softer and quieter sound, ensuring a more discreet typing experience, especially during late-night sessions.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch provides a tactile and responsive typing experience, with a distinct bump and click with each keystroke. However, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a buttery and smooth typing sensation, thanks to its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. The Semi Mute switch delivers a comfortable and gratifying typing experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions without causing fatigue.

Overall, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience, the Semi Mute switch offers a quiet and buttery typing sensation. Depending on your preference for noise level and typing feel, both switches can cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience or a quiet and smooth one, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that provides a satisfying clicky feedback and a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Gold clicky switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with a linear actuation and a slightly lower bottom out force, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be the ideal choice. Consider your preferences for noise level, typing feel, and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.

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