Kailh Plum vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The Plum is best known for its unique combination of a hefty feel and a subtle tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum's tactility and weightiness are not strongly correlated. Additionally, the Plum has a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovation. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, giving it a distinct semi-silent label. Its typing experience is silky smooth, striking a balance between polished and natural. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Plum Tactile

Jwick Semi-Silent Linear Linear

$6.25 per 10

$6.50

$5.27 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Plum and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using these switches.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Plum and the Semi-Silent Linear feature nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, regardless of whether you choose the Plum or the Semi-Silent Linear, you can expect a similar typing experience with a more muffled and rounded sound when bottoming out the keys.

However, it's important to note that the placement of these housing materials within the switch affects the overall sound and feel. The qualities of the top housing, such as sharpness and pitch, have a more noticeable impact when releasing a key. On the other hand, the bottom housing plays a greater role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the depth and fullness of the typing experience. Therefore, while the housing materials may be the same, the distribution within the switch can result in subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback between the Plum and the Semi-Silent Linear.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is worth noting that the specific values for the actuation force are unavailable for both switches. However, we can still compare and contrast based on the available information. In terms of the bottom out force, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly heavier force of 70 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, which may be preferred by those who desire a lighter typing experience. In terms of actuation force, as the values are unknown, we can assume that they might be similar or perhaps differ slightly. Overall, if you prefer a keyboard with a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may be the better option. However, if you prefer a switch with a stronger and more substantial push feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch may be more suitable.

Travel distance

The Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Compared to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, both of these switches have shorter travel distances. Both options offer a more responsive typing experience, which is especially favored by gamers who value faster response times. However, it is important to note that the Plum switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, making it the shorter option between the two. Some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a more hearty depth in their keystrokes. In that case, the longer travel distance of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch may be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound level. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as having a subdued sound. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, making it quieter than most switches. However, it is not completely silent. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, resulting in a similar sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a mild feel. It offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Plum switch is categorized as a stepped switch, which means it has two stages of tactility. This provides a more mild and nuanced typing experience, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is also described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience. It is categorized as a snappy switch, meaning it is super responsive. This responsiveness is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, which give the typing experience a more lively feel. The Jwick switch is also described as buttery and polished, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Plum switch has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild typing experience with stepped tactility. On the other hand, the Jwick switch has a subdued sound and offers a mild typing experience with snappy, buttery, and polished characteristics. While they have some similarities, such as a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, their overall subjective qualities are distinct. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches, as well as considering factors like keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a unique tactile experience and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a moderate sound profile and a mild typing experience, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, if you value a silky smooth typing feel with a medium bottom out force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch would be a better fit. These switches provide a subdued sound when pressed and offer a mild, snappy, and buttery typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile. Consider the Plum for a hefty feel with a unique tactile bump, or opt for the Semi-Silent Linear for a whisper-quiet top-out sound and a smooth, clacky bottom-out sound.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Semi-Silent Linear Linear

$6.50

$5.27 per 10

Learn more