KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The Phalaenopsis switch is well-known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue. With a satisfying tactile bump of 50g, each keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, resulting in a unique typing experience. Its silky smooth type feel is not overly polished, providing a pleasant and comfortable keyboarding experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have both similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more defined sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables the use of RGB lighting for enhanced aesthetics. Therefore, both switches will yield similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal.
The distinction between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Phalaenopsis employs polycarbonate in its bottom housing as well, while the Semi-Silent Linear opts for nylon. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This makes the Semi-Silent Linear a suitable choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience with a more muted sound output.
When examining the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that the bottom and top housings contribute differently to the typing experience. The qualities brought forth by the bottom housing have a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Phalaenopsis and Semi-Silent Linear share similarities in their top housing materials, their differing bottom housings result in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light in terms of force required for both triggering a keystroke and pressing all the way down. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is currently unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis might be the preferred choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions, such as work or gaming. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial push feel and a stronger tactile experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch with its higher bottom out force may be a better option.
It is worth noting that since the actuation force for the Semi-Silent Linear is not provided, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of actuation force between the two switches. However, based solely on the provided information, it can be concluded that the Phalaenopsis is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Semi-Silent Linear.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This distinction in travel distance can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, offers a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear with its slightly shorter travel distance provides a faster response time, which is desirable for gamers or those who prioritize quick and precise keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. It provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump of 50g, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile. The deep and rich sound during key presses resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones, providing a satisfying auditory experience. The Semi-Silent Linear, on the other hand, is a highly innovative linear switch with a semi-silent label. Its topping-out sound is whisper-quiet, while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The sound produced by the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as subdued, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. In terms of feel, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as a stepped switch, providing a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. It is also described as snappy, implying super responsiveness, and buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It may also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches have their unique subjective qualities, with the Phalaenopsis providing a satisfying tactile bump and a deeper, richer sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a gentle and approachable typing experience with a subdued sound signature.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its bottom-out force of 50 grams ensures effortless typing and minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy or thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams and a silky smooth type feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch would be a suitable option. With its innovative design, this switch has a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It offers a subdued or neutral sound profile, meaning it produces a dampened or subtle sound when pressed.
Considering the feel aspect, if you appreciate a stepped switch that provides a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, the Phalaenopsis would be a good fit. Alternatively, if you prefer a mild, snappy, buttery, or polished switch that offers a more gentle, responsive, smooth, or refined typing sensation, the Semi-Silent Linear would be suitable.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch depends on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Evaluating these factors will help you make an informed decision based on your personal typing preferences.
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