Outemu Silent Grey vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Grey and KTT Semi Mute offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Outemu Silent Grey switch is well-known for its quiet and highly tactile typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying yet silent keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch, despite its name, provides a completely silent operation and is perfect for individuals who prioritize a noise-free environment during late-night typing sessions. The Semi Mute switch features a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, offering a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. While the Silent Grey switch provides a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Semi Mute switch offers a buttery, mild, muted, and neutral typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Overall, the Outemu Silent Grey and KTT Semi Mute switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards they are used in.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Silent Grey utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate material. This contrast in bottom housing materials can lead to a noticeable difference in the typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing material between the Outemu Silent Grey and KTT Semi Mute switches, the use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both switches ensures that they deliver a similar level of sharpness and clarity in sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the depth and fullness of sound desired during typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch reveals some key differences. The Silent Grey has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Semi Mute's lighter 43 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Silent Grey is also heavier at 65 grams, while the Semi Mute bottoms out at 58 grams. This means that the Silent Grey provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Semi Mute offers a lighter touch, making it suitable for users looking for a smoother typing experience. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them both great options depending on individual preferences and typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch or the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you can expect to experience the same key travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Grey 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 Silent Grey switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a noiseless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is designed to produce a muted sound, creating a softer and quieter typing environment. Both switches offer a more subdued sound profile compared to traditional mechanical switches, with the Semi Mute switch specifically aiming to minimize the noise associated with typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is praised for its highly tactile feedback and smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience with a pronounced bump. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild typing sensation, characterized by a smooth and gentle keystroke that is comfortable for prolonged use. Both switches aim to deliver a gratifying typing feel, with the Semi Mute switch focusing on providing a seamless and effortless typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Grey and KTT Semi Mute switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches are designed to offer a quiet and comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer a highly tactile switch like the Silent Grey or a linear switch with advanced dampening technology like the Semi Mute, you can expect similar results in terms of creating an undisturbed typing environment. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities and preferences that you prioritize in your typing experience. If you value a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Silent Grey switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing with a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more tactile typing feel or a smoother, quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and needs.
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