Outemu Silent White vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White and KTT Semi Mute switches stand out as top contenders for those seeking a quieter typing experience. The Silent White switch is known for its None, while the Semi Mute switch is named "Semi Mute" despite their completely silent operation. The Silent White switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch, also a linear switch, prioritizes noise reduction with advanced dampening technology. The KTT Semi Mute switches are perfect for creating a noise-free environment, making them ideal for late-night typing sessions undisturbed by loud key presses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silent White Linear

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the KTT Semi Mute, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Silent White utilizes a nylon bottom housing which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound than polycarbonate. In contrast, the Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a sharper sound profile consistent with its top housing material.

While both switches offer a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Silent White and the Semi Mute impacts the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the switch, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute maintains a sharper and crisper sound when typing. This split in housing materials allows users to feel the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing a key and experience the impact of the top housing material when releasing a key.

Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent White and the KTT Semi Mute will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. The Silent White's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials creates a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Semi Mute's consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings ensures a sharp and resonant sound. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in the top housing for a clear and lively sound, but the difference in bottom housing material will ultimately determine the overall sound and feel of each switch.

Weight

In comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that both switches have similar actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, providing a balanced typing experience for users. The actuation force is the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either switch would be suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, both switches would still provide a satisfactory amount of resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can see that the Silent White has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Semi Mute has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Silent White'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 and satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth. Both switches offer a different feel and experience based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of which one would be the better option for you.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent White switch is known for its quiet operation, perfect for those looking for a noise-free typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch lives up to its name with advanced dampening technology that produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Semi Mute switch is specifically designed for those who value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, making it ideal for late-night sessions. Both switches offer a muted sound profile, but the Semi Mute switch takes it a step further with its advanced dampening technology.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silent White switch's characteristics are not specified, while the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as having a buttery and mild typing experience. A buttery switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, creating a seamless and effortless typing sensation. This quality makes the Semi Mute switch comfortable and gratifying for extended typing sessions. The mild characteristic of the Semi Mute switch offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel.

Overall, both switches offer a quiet and comfortable typing experience, with the Silent White switch focusing on a noise-free environment and the Semi Mute switch providing an advanced dampening technology for a softer sound profile. While the feel of the Silent White switch is unspecified, the Semi Mute switch stands out for its buttery and mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but either option will likely provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your preference for noise level and typing experience. If you prioritize a completely silent operation and a noise-free environment, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-bottom out force switch with a linear actuation, the Outemu Silent White switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a specific typing feel. Both switches have their unique strengths, so make your choice based on your personal preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent White Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more