KTT Semi Mute vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Semi Mute and the Bsun Taichi both present unique features that cater to different typing preferences, appealing to various users in the mechanical keyboard community. The KTT Semi Mute switch stands out for its completely silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night typing sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, this switch offers a buttery and muted typing experience that feels comfortable and soothing. Conversely, the Bsun Taichi switch captures attention with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, designed with a long-pole stem and extended springs that enhance smoothness and stability. Although both switches are linear, their distinguishing characteristics cater to unique user preferences—whether one seeks tranquility or auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Semi Mute and the Bsun Taichi both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to very similar sound profiles characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper quality. This shared feature results from polycarbonate's stiffer properties, which enhance resonance and clarity, making every keystroke more pronounced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic appeal, especially when RGB lighting is considered. In both designs, the clear housing allows light to pass through beautifully, providing greater visual effects and immersion for users who enjoy customizable keyboard illumination.
However, a divergence occurs with the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Semi Mute opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, thereby maintaining the same crisp sound profile throughout, contributing to a cohesive auditory experience. This consistency means that the sound produced when bottoming out is similarly sharp and resonant. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi employs nylon for its bottom housing, which tends to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer nature absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience when typing. Consequently, while users of both switches will enjoy a clear sound when releasing a key, the sound and feel upon bottoming out will vary significantly.
In summary, while both the KTT Semi Mute and the Bsun Taichi share the same polycarbonate material for their tops, the differences in their bottom housing materials create distinct auditory experiences. Users can expect a similar crisp product with the Semi Mute, while those using the Taichi will experience a sound that is more robust and resonant, especially during bottoming out. This blend of materials essentially shapes the overall typing experience, with the top housing leaning towards sharpness and clarity, while the bottom housing of each switch contributes unique characteristics that distinguish them from one another.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force that can influence user experience. The Semi Mute switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which offers a balanced feel that caters to both typists and gamers. In contrast, the Taichi switch features a slightly lighter actuation force at 40 grams but lacks a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to assess how it performs under full depression. This unknown aspect may leave users uncertain about the overall key feel of the Taichi. Consequently, the KTT Semi Mute is the heavier option in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer stronger feedback. Conversely, users who favor lighter switches for longer typing sessions or extended gaming may gravitate towards the Bsun Taichi, assuming they are comfortable with its unspecified bottoming out capability.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the differences are quite distinct. The KTT Semi Mute features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options and ideal for those who appreciate a deeper keypress for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which caters to users who prefer faster response times, particularly beneficial for gamers. This shorter distance can offer a snappier feel but may lack the satisfying depth that some typists crave. Ultimately, if you're seeking a more responsive experience, the Bsun Taichi is the preferable choice, while the KTT Semi Mute provides a deeper, more traditional feel for those who favor a more pronounced keypress.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 switches are designed for a completely silent typing experience, making them ideal for those who operate in noise-sensitive environments or prefer undisturbed late-night sessions. They are characterized by a muted and neutral sound profile, which results in a softer and quieter operation compared to more traditional or clacky switches. This allows users to type without drawing attention, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switches are noted for their enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to their long-pole stem and extended springs. This distinct sound signature can provide a more engaging typing experience, but it can be significantly louder than the Semi Mute switches.
When it comes to feel, KTT Semi Mute switches excel in providing a buttery and mild typing sensation. The buttery descriptor emphasizes their smoothness, enabling users to enjoy a seamless and effortless keystroke with each press. The mild nature of the switch means that it offers a gentle typing experience, making it accessible and comfortable for a wide range of users. In contrast, while the specific feel characteristics of the Bsun Taichi switches are not detailed, their focus on smoothness and stability suggests they may provide a very different tactile experience compared to the Semi Mute.
In conclusion, both the KTT Semi Mute and Bsun Taichi switches target different user preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Semi Mute switches prioritize a silent operation and buttery feel, making them perfect for quiet environments. In contrast, the Taichi switches offer a more pronounced auditory experience and possibly a different tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy an engaging sound profile. When selecting between these switches, one should consider their personal environment and typing preferences to ensure they find the switch that best suits their needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environmental needs. If you frequently find yourself typing late into the night or in shared spaces where noise may be a concern, the Semi Mute is the superior option. Its medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, along with its advanced dampening technology, ensures a quieter experience without sacrificing comfort, making it suitable for both casual and professional use. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more dynamic and tactile typing experience with enhanced auditory feedback, the Taichi might be your go-to switch. Although the bottom-out force is not specified, the switch's long-pole stem design is crafted for smoothness and stability, delivering an enchanting high-pitched sound that can make your typing feel more engaging. Ultimately, consider where and how you'll be using your keyboard most frequently: for a serene and muted environment, opt for the KTT Semi Mute, but for an exhilarating auditory experience, the Bsun Taichi will serve you well.
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