KTT Semi Mute vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Semi Mute and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences. The Semi Mute switch is perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switch provides a comfortable and gratifying typing experience. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the ingenious use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. Additionally, it offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from the competition. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both contribute to creating a unique sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Semi Mute produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the proprietary KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Both materials provide a distinct auditory experience, with the polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance, and the KTT blend promoting a more distinctive clacky sound. However, they differ in their composition, with polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic and the KTT blend being a special mix of materials.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the differences between the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing are notable. While both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, the POK material stands out for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. With a coefficient of friction higher than LY and exceptional wear resistance, the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream switches ensures a smooth and durable typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute emphasizes clarity and resonance in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches have distinct characteristics, they both play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The top and bottom housings contribute different qualities to the overall typing experience, with the top housing impacting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether it's the clarity and sharpness of the polycarbonate in the Semi Mute or the smoothness and durability of the POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream, each housing material offers a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that they both have an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Semi Mute has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's lighter 48 grams. This means that the Semi Mute provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of speed and responsiveness despite the slight difference in bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is 3.5 mm. In this case, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute switch. A travel distance of 4 mm is more traditional and offers a deeper key press experience, while a 3.5 mm travel distance is shallower and may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 designed to offer a muted and neutral typing experience, minimizing noise and providing a comfortable environment for typing, especially during late-night sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch produces a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory experience that stands out from the crowd. While the Semi Mute provides a quieter operation, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a more distinctive and lively sound signature.
When it comes to feel, both the KTT Semi Mute and Vanilla Ice Cream switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. The Semi Mute switch offers a mild and comfortable typing sensation that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, suitable for various users. Meanwhile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, reminiscent of its namesake dessert, with a remarkable smoothness that allows for effortless keystrokes and a luxurious feel.
Overall, the KTT Semi Mute and Vanilla Ice Cream switches both excel in providing a pleasant and satisfying typing experience. While the Semi Mute switch focuses on creating a noise-free environment with its muted operation and comfortable feel, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out with its unique high-pitched sound profile and creamy typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences and environments. Ultimately, users can expect a similar level of satisfaction with either switch, as both provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a noise-free environment and a comfortable typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 58 grams is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and creamier typing feel with a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a silent typing experience (Semi Mute) or a smooth and creamy feel (Vanilla Ice Cream). Make your decision based on what best fits your typing style and environment.
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