TTC Gold Silver vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Silent Red offer distinct qualities to cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, delivering a decisive bottom-out with each keystroke and a resonant sound signature that emphasizes swift action. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience compared to its predecessor, the MX Red, while maintaining a satisfying feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on whether you prioritize speed and precision or prefer a quieter 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Silent Red, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon, as a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile in typing. This means that both switches will have a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red. This difference in top housing material will result in a noticeable variation in sound when releasing a key between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality with RGB lighting, the TTC Gold Silver has a clear polycarbonate top housing, making it ideal for showcasing lighting effects due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of clarity for light to shine through. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can impact not only the sound profile but also the visual appeal of a mechanical switch. Despite both switches having a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the difference in top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and visual customization options.
It is important to note that the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience. While both the Gold Silver and Silent Red share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the Gold Silver's top housing creates a unique sound signature that differs from the Silent Red. This difference showcases how subtle variations in housing materials can result in distinct typing sensations and sound profiles. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics, with the Gold Silver offering a crisper sound profile and visual customization options through its polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. Therefore, it can be assumed that the results would be similar in terms of actuation force for both switches. In terms of weight, both switches would provide a lighter typing experience, which is suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming. Those looking for a heavier push feel may not find a substantial typing experience with either of these switches. Overall, the actuation forces of both switches are the same, but the bottom out forces are unknown, making them suitable for users looking for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we see that the Gold Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the MX Silent Red's 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may affect how users perceive the tactile feedback and actuation point of each switch. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Gold Silver, while those who desire a slightly deeper keystroke may prefer the MX Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its rapid responsiveness and solid bottom-out, which is accompanied by a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. The sound produced is deep and satisfying, making each keystroke resonate with a sense of closure. In terms of feel, the Gold Silver switch offers a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch retains the classic characteristics of the MX Red but operates silently, providing a quieter typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The sound profile of the MX Silent Red is muted, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to standard switches. However, information on the feel of the MX Silent Red switch is unknown. Overall, while the Gold Silver and the MX Silent Red switches differ in sound characteristics, both deliver a smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and noise levels, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out feel, and a resonant sound signature, then the TTC Gold Silver switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying feel of a linear switch, the MX Silent Red switch would be the more suitable choice. Additionally, if you prefer a smooth and polished typing experience, the Gold Silver switch may be more appealing, whereas if you prefer a switch with a textured feel, the MX Silent Red switch would better suit your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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