Outemu Crystal vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Crystal switch offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a linear feel that is both satisfying and comfortable. With a neutral sound profile, it provides a quiet and undisturbed typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is designed for those who prioritize speed and precision. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, it allows for quick and effortless actuation, perfect for fast typists. Additionally, its pristine sound profile ensures a pleasant typing experience. 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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and TTC Speed Silver switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice if you plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for an appealing display of colors. Therefore, both the Crystal and Speed Silver switches offer similar sound characteristics and visual aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Crystal retains the use of polycarbonate, while the Speed Silver adopts a nylon material. The nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver switch offers a different sound experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic material that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the clearer and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch can significantly affect the overall typing experience, offering a variety of sound profiles and tactile sensations for users to choose from.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that they have identical force requirements. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls under the category of medium-light. This means that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, which can be favorable for those who need to type for long periods of time or engage in extended gaming sessions. The identical force requirements ensure that users can expect similar results in terms of sensitivity and feedback when using either switch. However, it is worth noting that some individuals might prefer a heavier actuation force for a more solid typing experience, while others might appreciate the lighter actuation force for its ease of use. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the specific preferences and requirements of the user.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Crystal has a more traditional travel distance, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers, who value faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances. In this case, the TTC Speed Silver would be the preferred choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Crystal may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique acoustic signature. It is described as chirpy, which means it has a little squeak to it. This sets it apart from other switches and gives it a distinct sound. Additionally, the Crystal switch has a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This may be preferred by those who do not like the more rich and bassy sound profiles of certain switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, the Crystal and Speed Silver switches offer different sound experiences, catering to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a polished typing experience. A polished switch indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek key travel and reduced friction. This leads to a more enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Like the Crystal switch, the Speed Silver switch is also polished, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches provide a polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined feel.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have their own unique qualities. The Crystal switch offers a linear typing experience with medium-light weight and an elastic feel. It has a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile. The Crystal switch also provides a polished typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is known for its precise and fast typing experience. It has a light-medium level of resistance and a neutral sound profile. The Speed Silver switch, like the Crystal switch, provides a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While they have some similarities, such as the polished typing experience, the Crystal and Speed Silver switches offer different typing experiences in terms of weight, sound, and feel. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a unique, linear typing experience with medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, then the Crystal is the way to go. These switches offer a fairly elastic feel and are known for their medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. They produce a chirpy or high-pitched sound when pressed and have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, the TTC Speed Silver is the better choice. With these switches, you can expect quick and effortless actuation due to their reduced travel distance. They have a neutral sound profile and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and TTC Speed Silver switches depends on your individual preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall experience. Consider what is most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your needs. Whether you prefer the unique, linear typing experience of the Crystal or the fast and precise feel of the Speed Silver, both switches offer their own advantages and can enhance your typing experience.
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