Outemu Silent Yellow Jade vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the KTT Semi Mute offer distinct features to consider. The Silent Yellow Jade stands out for its quiet yet tactile typing experience, characterized by a satisfying "thocky" sound and a unique translucent jade yellow housing. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute, despite its name, provides a completely silent operation with a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology for a noise-free typing environment. While the Silent Yellow Jade is best suited for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience, the Semi Mute is ideal for individuals looking for a silent and smooth keystroke. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the KTT Semi Mute feature different materials for their top and bottom housings. While the Silent Yellow Jade utilizes nylon for both parts, the KTT Semi Mute opts for polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the KTT Semi Mute produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer composition. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, which may be a desirable feature for some users.
On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their bottom housing, with the Silent Yellow Jade and the KTT Semi Mute utilizing nylon and polycarbonate, respectively. This consistency in material for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. The properties of the bottom housing, whether it be the softer nylon of the Silent Yellow Jade or the stiffer polycarbonate of the KTT Semi Mute, will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the KTT Semi Mute can greatly affect the sound profile and typing experience. The use of nylon for the Silent Yellow Jade results in a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate of the Semi Mute delivers a clearer and more resonant sound. However, regardless of the differences in top and bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience of each switch will be influenced by a combination of these factors, creating a unique and satisfying feel for users looking for a specific sound profile.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow Jade is the heavier of the two. The Silent Yellow Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force. On the other hand, the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. While both switches provide tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow Jade requires more force to press down compared to the Semi Mute. This means that typing on the Silent Yellow Jade may require a bit more effort, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. However, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Semi Mute may be the better option due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Yellow Jade has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute. A shorter travel distance can provide a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who need fast reactions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Yellow Jade 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
The Silent Yellow Jade switch is known for its "thocky" sound while providing a tactile typing experience with a punchy tactile bump. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is designed to be completely silent, ideal for those who prefer a noise-free environment. The Semi Mute offers a muted sound profile, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience. As for the feel, the Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a unique typing sensation with its tactile bump, but specifics are not provided. In contrast, the Semi Mute switch is described as providing a buttery and mild typing experience, characterized by a smooth and uniform keystroke. Overall, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and KTT Semi Mute switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, catering to various preferences. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch. Consider additional factors like your keyboard and keycap choices when deciding between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a completely silent operation and prefer a linear actuation with advanced dampening technology for a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions, then the KTT Semi Mute switches would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel, as well as your requirement for a specific typing experience.
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