TTC Gold Pink vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it's important to note the key differences in their characteristics. The Gold Pink is renowned for its 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available, perfect for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience. With a satisfying clacky sound, these switches are ideal for rapid typing or gaming, offering a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red maintains the classic characteristics of the MX Red but with the added feature of operating silently. This switch provides a slightly heftier feel while significantly reducing sound, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but the ultimate choice will depend on individual typing and gaming needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and Cherry MX Silent Red switches both offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing gives a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the MX Silent Red's nylon top housing is a classic material known for its durability.
Both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This means that when typing on either the Gold Pink or MX Silent Red switches, users can expect a similar sound experience stemming from the shared bottom housing material. However, the different top housing materials give each switch its own distinct sound characteristics, with the Gold Pink offering a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the MX Silent Red's duller and rounder sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gold Pink and MX Silent Red switches impacts not only the sound profile but also the typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Pink creates a sharper sound when releasing a key, while the softer nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red provides a deeper sound when typing. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials result in unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink is the lighter option. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter and easier switch to press. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Gold Pink. The bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Pink for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the MX Silent Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the MX Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Pink offering a bit more depth when pressed. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time of the MX Silent Red due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial press may prefer the Gold Pink. In general, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the specific feel desired while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 TTC Gold Pink linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a lively and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a more audible typing experience with the Gold Pink or a quieter one with the MX Silent Red.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth, gentle, and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which implies noticeable friction when pressed. Ultimately, it all comes down to individual preference for the typing feel one prefers—whether it's the smooth and polished experience of the Gold Pink or the textured feedback of the MX Silent Red.
Taking into account the sound and feel descriptions of the TTC Gold Pink and Cherry MX Silent Red linear switches, it's clear that they offer distinct qualities to cater to different preferences. The Gold Pink excels in providing a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the MX Silent Red offers a quieter operation with a thocky and muted sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience that suits their individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Pink linear switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is important to take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a slightly clacky sound, then the Gold Pink switch would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments while still maintaining a satisfying typing feel, then the MX Silent Red switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a clacky sound profile or a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so pick the one that aligns best with your typing needs and environment.
Mentioned in this article
