Bsun Cliff vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and TTC Silent Red offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Bsun Cliff is celebrated for its medium tactility, providing a satisfying tactile bump accompanied by a crisp sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory feedback to your keystrokes. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more traditional typing feel and appreciate the sound that comes with it. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is designed for a smooth and seamless experience, featuring a muted sound profile that ensures discretion, making it ideal for office environments or shared living spaces. With a buttery, mild, and polished feel, the Silent Red guarantees a comfortable typing experience without the distractions of noise. Both switches have their unique strengths, so whether you're drawn to the tactile feedback of the Cliff switch or the whisper-quiet performance of the Silent Red, each offers compelling reasons to make a choice. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Silent Red, it becomes clear that both switches utilize the same materials for their top and bottom housings, specifically polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. This similarity results in a shared sound profile that enhances the typing experience for both switches. The polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sonic quality, which is beneficial not only for typing feel but also for aesthetics, particularly in setups with RGB lighting. These features allow both switches to deliver a similar auditory experience, making them suitable for enthusiasts who prioritize both performance and visual appeal.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Silent Red utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material renowned for its acoustical properties. The use of nylon directly influences the sound output, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tone provided by the polycarbonate top. This unique combination of materials results in a nuanced balance; while the polycarbonate accentuates clarity and brightness during keystrokes, the nylon dampens sound, thereby producing a rounder and more rounded typing experience. The distinct contributions of each material play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound signature of the switches, allowing each to possess its character despite their material similarities.
Ultimately, even though both the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Silent Red share the same housing materials, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom remains key to their performance. The stiffness of the polycarbonate lends itself to a more resonant upper sound profile when keys are released, while the softer nylon contributes to a more impactful bottom-out feel. As a result, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of both sound and feel, thanks to the thoughtful integration of these materials. By understanding how each housing component interacts during key presses and releases, enthusiasts can appreciate the depth and clarity that both switches provide while leveraging their shared characteristics.
Weight
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch exhibit distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying typing preferences. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suited for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming where quick responses are desired. In contrast, the Silent Red switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile experience for users who prefer a firmer key press. As a result, the Cliff switch would be ideal for those who prioritize comfort and speed, while the Silent Red appeals to individuals seeking a stronger tactile feedback. Overall, the Cliff is lighter, whereas the Silent Red is noticeably heavier, reflecting the respective typing experiences they deliver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, the Bsun Cliff measures 3.6 mm, while the TTC Silent Red boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you're looking for a quicker response time, the Bsun Cliff switch would be the better option, as it has a shorter travel distance. However, for those who favor a more substantial feel when pressing a key, the TTC Silent Red, with its longer travel distance, might provide a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, while both switches have travel distances that align with the growing trend for shorter options in gaming, the Cliff offers a slight edge in responsiveness, albeit at the expense of depth compared to the Silent Red.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, the Cliff is known for its crisp sound signature, which tends to provide a more pronounced acoustic experience during typing. On the other hand, the Silent Red features a muted sound profile that significantly minimizes noise, making it an excellent option for quieter environments such as offices or shared living spaces. The Cliff's sound is generally more vibrant and can evoke a satisfying auditory feedback, while the Silent Red’s design focuses on reducing auditory clatter, creating a serene typing atmosphere.
Regarding the tactile feel, the Cliff tactile switch offers a medium tactility, striking a balance that many users appreciate. The tactile bump is noticeable but not overwhelming, catering well to those who enjoy a hint of feedback without it being too harsh. In contrast, the Silent Red linear switch delivers a buttery smooth and polished typing experience. This switch allows for a seamless transition from key press to key release, characterized by gentle resistance and a padded bottom-out feel, providing maximal comfort. While the Cliff provides a defined tactile response, the Silent Red offers an incredibly smooth journey for the fingers as they glide across its surface.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switches provide a more dynamic sound and a medium level of tactile feedback, making them a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of auditory engagement mixed with a satisfying tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the TTC Silent Red linear switches excel in delivering a quiet and smooth typing experience, ideal for users seeking a distraction-free environment. Ultimately, selecting between these two options will depend on personal preference, as one may favor the stimulating dynamic of the Cliff while another may opt for the tranquility offered by the Silent Red.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch largely depends on your preferences for feel, sound, and the typing environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a tactile bump that offers a clear feedback without being overly loud, the Cliff switch could be ideal for you. Its medium tactility and crisp sound make it suitable for vibrant typing sessions while still being approachable for casual use. On the other hand, if you seek a quieter and smoother typing experience—particularly in shared spaces such as offices or homes—the Silent Red is an excellent option. Its medium-heavy actuation and buttery, polished feel promote a consistent and comfortable typing experience, making it perfect for long hours spent at your keyboard. Ultimately, select the Cliff for that engaging tactile feedback and a bit of auditory satisfaction, or go for the Silent Red if you prioritize a serene and effortless typing journey.
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