Gateron Glory Red vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and TTC Silent Red linear switches stand out for their distinct traits and user experiences. The Glory Red switches are known for their light touch and smooth keystrokes, providing an enjoyable typing experience thanks to their pleasing travel distance. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a responsive feel in gaming or typing scenarios. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switches excel in delivering a whisper-quiet experience without compromising on smoothness. With their muted sound profile, these switches cater to users in office environments or shared spaces, where noise can be a concern, while also featuring a padded bottom-out feel for added comfort. Each switch offers a unique advantage: the Glory Reds appeal to those seeking a lively and engaging typing experience, while the Silent Reds are ideal for those who value discretion and comfort. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Silent Red switches, a distinct difference emerges in their top housings. The Glory Red features a nylon top housing, known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for users seeking a muted auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Silent Red employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This choice is ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant feedback, particularly if RGB lighting effects are a priority, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances illumination. Thus, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences due to their differing top housing materials, their appeal varies based on user preference for sound profile.

Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a notable similarity. Both the Glory Red and the Silent Red incorporate nylon in their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their counterparts. This commonality in materials means that regardless of the differences in the top housing, the bottom-out sound and feel during typing will exhibit comparable qualities. The nylon’s soft composition provides an absorbing effect that diminishes harshness and contributes to a more rounded auditory experience. Consequently, while the top and bottom housings may create varying influences on the overall sound, the nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent tactile response across both switches.

In summary, the Gateron Glory Red and TTC Silent Red provide users with contrasting auditory experiences primarily due to their differing top housing materials. However, they share a similarity in their bottom housing, both crafted from nylon, which reinforces a cohesive sound signature when bottoming out. The differentiation in top housing materials allows users to choose between a more muted or sharper sound profile while maintaining a consistent feel in typing experience thanks to the nylon at the base. This interplay of materials exemplifies how switch design can cater to diverse preferences by combining unique characteristics with common elements.

Weight

The Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equivalent in this respect. This similarity suggests that users will experience the same lightness when pressing keys, which is ideal for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. However, the contrast lies in their bottom out forces; while the Glory Red's bottom out force is unspecified, the Silent Red has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. Consequently, the Silent Red provides a more substantial feel when bottoming out, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push sensation. In summary, while both switches offer a light actuation force, the Silent Red is heavier in terms of bottoming out, which might influence user preference based on typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, the distinction is clear: the Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Glory Red the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate tactile experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which some users prefer for a more substantial feel during typing. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more traditional typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch is characterized by a relatively standard acoustic profile, striking a balance that doesn’t stand out for being overly loud or overly muted. This means it can fit well into both casual and gaming environments without being excessively jarring. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switch is designed specifically for those who prioritize quietness. With a muted sound profile, these switches significantly reduce the typical clacking noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes Silent Reds particularly suited for office settings or shared living spaces where noise concerns are prevalent.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch offers a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience. Although specific descriptors are not available, its smoothness is likely akin to a refined linear switch, catering to users who enjoy fluidity when pressing keys. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red boasts a collection of feel descriptors, including "buttery," "mild," and "polished." These qualities suggest that Silent Reds deliver a uniformly smooth typing sensation that feels effortless, making it approachable for a wide range of users while ensuring a comfortable bottom-out experience due to its padded design.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Glory Red and TTC Silent Red switches share similarities in their smooth feel and enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different auditory preferences. Users who appreciate a more pronounced experience without excessive noise may lean towards the Glory Red, whereas those seeking a quieter option are likely to prefer the Silent Red due to its muted sound profile. Ultimately, regardless of the choice, both switches offer enjoyable results, making either a solid selection based on personal priorities.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you value a smooth keystroke and a lighter actuation force, the Gateron Glory Red may be the right choice for you, especially if you enjoy a quick typing experience without much resistance. It’s well-suited for gaming or casual typing where noise is not a primary concern. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that minimizes sound while still providing a comfortable typing experience, the TTC Silent Red is the better option. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and muted sound profile, it excels in shared spaces or offices where noise reduction is essential. The buttery feel and polished nature of the Silent Red switches make for a delightful typing experience that is both smooth and considerate to those around you. In essence, choose the Glory Red for enjoyment and speed in quieter environments, and opt for the Silent Red to maintain peace and comfort while you type.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more