KTT Semi Mute vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that prioritizes silent operation, two popular options to consider are the KTT Semi Mute and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The KTT Semi Mute switches are uniquely named, as they offer completely silent operation while delivering a satisfying typing experience. These linear switches, featuring advanced dampening technology, are perfect for individuals who value a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are designed to provide a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. These switches offer a polished and silky typing experience, making them ideal for environments that require quieter typing. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.

By the numbers

KTT Semi Mute Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches differ in terms of their composition. The Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Silent Ink Black incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. However, both materials contribute to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, albeit with slight variations. The polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute offers a crisper and more resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Meanwhile, the INK blend top housing of the Silent Ink Black produces a slightly less sharp but still pointed sound, often described as clacky. Ultimately, both switches provide similar sound characteristics while utilizing different housing materials.

In addition to the top housing, the bottom housing of the KTT Semi Mute and the Gateron Silent Ink Black also differ in material composition. The Semi Mute features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silent Ink Black incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound when pressed, creating a clear and resonant sound profile. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black also contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. Both materials enhance the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, showcasing their unique qualities in sound production.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound of a switch, the Semi Mute and the Silent Ink Black share similar traits. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute and the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black both contribute to a sharper and high-pitched sound upon the actuation of a key. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when the key is released. The polycarbonate top housing in the Semi Mute provides a sharp and resonating sound, while the INK blend top housing in the Silent Ink Black delivers a slightly less sharp but still pointed sound. Overall, although the top and bottom housings differ in material composition, both switches ultimately offer comparable results in terms of sound production.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Semi Mute requires a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Silent Ink Black demands a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming, the Semi Mute would be the more suitable option. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Silent Ink Black with its heavier actuation force would be more appropriate.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Semi Mute has a slightly lighter weight of 58 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 70 grams. This implies that when pressing the keys all the way down, the Silent Ink Black would provide a slightly more resistant bottoming out experience.

Overall, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a lighter actuation force and a lighter bottom out force, making it more favorable for those looking for a lighter typing experience. The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, on the other hand, provides a heavier actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, appealing to individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we find that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel. Therefore, the results from using these switches will be similar in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the KTT Semi Mute and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are categorized as muted switches. This means that they produce softer and quieter sounds compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, when paired with a suitable board and keycaps, both switches will provide a similar muted sound experience.

Moving on to feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery and mild. A buttery switch refers to a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic of the KTT Semi Mute switch means that it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, as its qualities fall within a safe and middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the keystrokes and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished characteristic of the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Considering all the available information, both the KTT Semi Mute and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches excel in providing a muted sound experience, suitable for those who value a noise-free environment. In terms of feel, the KTT Semi Mute offers a buttery and mild typing sensation, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a silky and polished typing experience. Although they have different descriptors, both switches provide smoothness and a satisfying feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for either a buttery and mild feel or a silky and polished feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its completely silent operation and advanced dampening technology, it provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. The Semi Mute has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It is described as having a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Semi Mute is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience without being too pronounced or overwhelming.

On the other hand, if you are in an environment that necessitates quieter typing and appreciate an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be your best choice. With its cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, it is perfect for creating a quieter typing environment. The Silent Ink Black has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. It is also described as having a muted sound profile, reducing the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, it is referred to as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel.

Overall, both switches have their own unique advantages depending on your preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize a noise-free environment or a cushion-like typing experience, you can choose between the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more