Everglide Crystal Violet vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Speed Silver are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Crystal Violet is a tactile switch, known for its relaxed and stepped tactile feedback with a light operating force of 45g. It provides a gentle and comfortable feel while offering a pleasantly mellow sound profile, leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is a linear switch, perfect for those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. Additionally, they boast a pristine sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities and are suited for different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Speed Silver differ in terms of their top housing materials. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing, which is a relatively rare plastic to be used in switch housings. This ABS material creates a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing on switches. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Crystal Violet's ABS bottom housing shares the same material as its top housing. Both the top and bottom housing contribute to the relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing on switches featuring ABS. In contrast, the Speed Silver has a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Overall, the Everglide Crystal Violet and the TTC Speed Silver showcase some significant differences in their housing materials. The Crystal Violet utilizes ABS for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a relatively low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Speed Silver combines a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound, with a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, it is important to note that both switches provide unique sound experiences due to their differing materials, allowing users to choose based on their preference.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that they have identical actuation forces and bottom out forces. Both switches require 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke and 55 grams of force to bottom out. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback when using either switch. The medium-light actuation and bottom out forces of both switches make them suitable choices for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for extended periods of typing without fatigue. Additionally, both switches offer a tactile feedback, which adds to the typing experience. Overall, whether opting for the Everglide Crystal Violet or the TTC Speed Silver, users will enjoy a consistent and comfortable typing experience with medium-light actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that there is a notable difference. The Crystal Violet has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range, while the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers, in particular, often favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the Speed Silver an attractive option for those seeking responsiveness. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial key press, the Crystal Violet with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired feel of the key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet switches have a pleasantly mellow sound profile that leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum. This creates a subtle auditory experience that is non-intrusive. The rare use of ABS in these switches' housings contributes to the overall sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound profile without any extreme characteristics. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant sound profile suitable for different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet switches offer a creamy and mild typing experience. These switches provide a smooth and buttery sensation due to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in their construction. The feel is described as gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting into it. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switches have a stepped feel, meaning they have two stages to the tactile feedback. This provides a more mild and nuanced sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches also offer a mild typing experience that is approachable for most users. They don't have any pronounced characteristics and provide a safe, middle-ground feel. Additionally, the Speed Silver switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Everglide Crystal Violet switches are best suited for those seeking a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. With a mellow sound profile and a creamy, mild feel, these switches offer a gentle and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches are more suitable for users who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. With a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches have their own unique qualities, providing different options for users with different preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Crystal Violet or the Speed Silver, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, as both switches fall within the neutral sound profile and offer a mild typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch would be your best choice. These switches have a light operating force of 45g, making them ideal for a more relaxed typing experience. The Crystal Violet switches also have a pleasantly mellow sound profile that leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the better option. With a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver switches also have a pristine sound profile and a light-medium level of resistance. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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