KTT Semi Mute vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Semi Mute and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Semi Mute and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch that offers a completely silent operation, making it ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. With its advanced dampening technology and linear actuation, the KTT Semi Mute provides a comfortable and satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile by Wuque strikes a different balance. It maintains a medium level of tactility while still reducing noise, making it a great option for office and work settings. Crafted with precision, the WS Silent Tactile switches feature innovative stem railings and cutouts, minimizing switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike most silent switches, the WS Silent Tactile switches do not use silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that avoids the usually padded feel. Both switches provide a unique blend of tranquility and tactility, catering to different preferences. However, to make the best decision for your needs, let's delve deeper into the specifics.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Semi Mute and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile have key differences, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top and bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone.
The utilization of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Semi Mute emphasizes a consistent and clear sound experience throughout typing. This material's stiffness delivers a resonant feel and a sharper sound when bottoming out or releasing a key. Conversely, the WS Silent Tactile's combination of nylon housings offers a more subdued typing experience. The softer texture of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This tactile experience is distinct, providing a different sensation when pressing down on the keys compared to the Semi Mute.
The difference in materials between the top and bottom housings of these switches creates a split in the qualities they bring. When pressing down a key, the bottom housing of both switches has a more significant impact on the sound and feel during the bottom-out. However, upon releasing a key, the top housing plays a more prominent role in shaping the sound. While the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top and bottom housings provide a clear and crisp sound throughout typing, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon housings contribute to a deeper, fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on one's preference for a sharper and resonant sound with the Semi Mute or a deeper and rounder tone with the WS Silent Tactile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, some similarities and differences become evident. The actuation force of the Semi Mute is 43 grams, while the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force is currently unavailable. This indicates that if a lighter actuation force is desired, the Semi Mute may be the preferable choice. However, in terms of bottom out force, the WS Silent Tactile takes the lead with a force of 63.5 grams, whereas the Semi Mute has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams. Therefore, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the WS Silent Tactile's heavier force may be more suitable. It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, ensuring a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding weight and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference. The Semi Mute has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Semi Mute's 4 mm travel distance falls within the range of the traditional distance, offering a familiar feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, catering to those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, such as gamers. However, it is important to note that for some individuals, shorter travel distances can feel too abrupt. Therefore, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. If responsiveness is a priority, the WS Silent Tactile may be the preferred option. However, if a deeper key press is desired, the Semi Mute with its longer travel distance would be the better choice.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Semi Mute and the WS Silent Tactile switches offer a muted profile. A muted switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes both switches suitable for those who value a noise-free environment, such as during late-night typing sessions or in office settings. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Semi Mute switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, ensuring a comfortable and gratifying feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, providing approachable qualities that are neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the WS Silent Tactile switch is also described as invigorating, meaning it offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. This provides a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction.
In conclusion, both the KTT Semi Mute and the WS Silent Tactile switches excel in providing a noise-free typing experience. They both offer a muted sound profile, minimizing keyboard noise. In terms of feel, the Semi Mute switch is buttery, delivering a smooth and effortless typing sensation, while the WS Silent Tactile switch is mild and invigorating, striking a delicate balance between tactile feedback and noise reduction. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, allowing individuals to type undisturbed and maintain a quiet environment. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches, as well as the other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps that may impact the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is best suited for those who prioritize a quiet environment and undisturbed typing, particularly during late-night sessions. These switches offer a completely silent operation and a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams. With a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is ideal for office and work environments. These switches strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, offering a medium level of tactility and a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams. Crafted with precision, the WS Silent Tactile switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, effectively minimizing switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on your preference for a completely silent experience with linear actuation (Semi Mute) or a balance between tactility and noise reduction with a tactile feel (WS Silent Tactile).
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