KTT Semi Mute vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Semi Mute and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both linear switches. The KTT Semi Mute is perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, even during late-night typing sessions. Despite being completely silent, these switches provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, thanks to their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a unique combination of shorter activation and a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. Additionally, these switches emit a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
15mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the Jwick Splash Brothers, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, provide similar results in terms of sound profile. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a stiff plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material resonates more clearly, resulting in a more defined sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, making it a great choice for those wanting to enhance their keyboard aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Semi Mute and the Jwick Splash Brothers differ in their materials. The Semi Mute incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Splash Brothers utilize a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute offers similar sound qualities as the top housing, maintaining the clear and resonant sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers produces a deeper and fuller sound. With its softer plastic composition, nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile.
It is worth noting that the housing materials significantly impact the switch's sound and feel when pressed down or released. The bottom housing, whether it is polycarbonate or nylon, affects the bottom-out sound and feel, making it an essential factor in the typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing, also made of polycarbonate, plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when a key is released. Understanding these distinctions allows users to choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Semi Mute is 43 grams, while the Splash Brothers does not explicitly mention its actuation force. However, the Semi Mute provides a medium actuation force, while the actuation force of the Splash Brothers remains unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Semi Mute requires 58 grams of force to fully press a key, providing a slightly heavier typing feel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Splash Brothers to their liking as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work or prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing might prefer the Semi Mute, with its slightly heavier bottom out force. This can provide a sense of satisfaction and stability during typing.
It is important to note that while the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between these switches are apparent, the exact actuation force for the Splash Brothers remains unknown. Therefore, it is challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of actuation forces. However, if the actuation forces were similar, both switches would likely provide comparable results. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference regarding weight and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the Semi Mute has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Semi Mute falls into the traditional range, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Splash Brothers is slightly shallower, catering to gamers who prioritize faster response times. While both switches offer similar results and are suitable for different preferences, the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers ensures quicker key presses, ideal for gaming enthusiasts. However, for those who prefer a deeper feel while typing, the longer travel distance of 4.0 mm in the Semi Mute switch will provide a more satisfying experience.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Semi Mute switch is known for its muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making it ideal for those who value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing during late-night sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it falls in the middle ground in terms of sound. It is not overly loud or quiet, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely dependent on the switch itself, but also factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery and mild. The keystroke experience is smooth and fluid, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch offers a gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is also described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, it is described as snappy, meaning that it is super responsive, giving a more alive typing experience. It is also bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel. The switch is subtle, offering a gentle resistance and light typing feel, ideal for shared spaces. Lastly, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Semi Mute and Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Semi Mute switch provides a muted sound profile, making it ideal for a noise-free environment, while the Splash Brothers switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, the Semi Mute switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, while the Splash Brothers switch provides a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences and the intended usage of the keyboard when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and a comfortable typing experience, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a medium actuation force that suits most intents and purposes. These switches provide a muted sound profile, minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the Semi Mute switches have a buttery and mild feel, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch and appreciate a more responsive and lively typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch could be the better option. With a bottom out force of 48 grams, it provides a lighter actuation force. The Splash Brothers switches have a mild feel, which is approachable to most users, and they offer various qualities such as snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference based on your desired typing experience and noise level preferences.
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