Outemu Silver vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and KTT Semi Mute stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and precision. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is also a linear switch, but its claim to fame lies in its silent operation and advanced dampening technology. This makes it perfect for those who prefer a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing experience, particularly during late-night sessions. While the Outemu Silver offers a buttery and mild typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute provides a muted and neutral feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your specific preferences and requirements. 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
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 Silver and KTT Semi Mute both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the illumination of the keycaps. However, the Silver incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is absorbed more than with the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing found in the Semi Mute.
In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both the Silver and Semi Mute benefit from the polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the overall typing experience with its clear and resonant sound profile. The difference lies in the choice of bottom housing material, with the Silver's nylon bottom providing a more subdued and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom. This highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch, as the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch.
When considering the overall performance of the Outemu Silver and KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that the choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, the bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of the depth and clarity of the sound produced. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to their individual characteristics and influences the overall typing experience for the user.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the Silver switch is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium in comparison. The Silver switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Semi Mute switch would be lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Silver switch being the heavier option. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, making them suitable options for those who prefer a linear switch with a standard key press depth.
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 Silver 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 Outemu Silver linear switch is best known for its fast and smooth actuation, making it favored by gamers and typists who prefer quick response times. In terms of sound, the Silver switch is known to produce a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is designed for those who prioritize a noise-free typing experience, especially during late hours. It features advanced dampening technology for a quieter operation. The Semi Mute switch has a muted sound profile, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silver switch provides a versatile and consistent typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who value smooth keystrokes. As for the KTT Semi Mute switch, it offers a buttery and mild typing sensation, characterized by a smooth and effortless keystroke. This makes typing on the Semi Mute switch comfortable and gratifying, particularly for long typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silver and KTT Semi Mute switches have different strengths in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer high-quality performance in their respective categories. Whether you prioritize fast actuation and versatility or a noise-free and buttery typing experience, both switches provide satisfying results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and specific usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and noise level. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not particularly concerned about sound, the Silver switch may be a good option for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience and enjoy a linear actuation with advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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