TTC Gold Silver vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the TTC Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Gold Silver switch stands out for its rapid responsiveness and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying and decisive bottom-out with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a quiet typing experience ideal for shared environments, with a smooth and consistent feel throughout. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Silent Red prioritizes comfort and silence. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and TTC Silent Red switches are quite similar, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for light to shine through. Additionally, both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Despite their similarities in housing materials, the Gold Silver and Silent Red switches do have a key difference in terms of their top and bottom housings. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the split in qualities between the bottom and top housing affects the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of each switch has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and creating a fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released, contributing to the overall sharpness and crispness of the switch's sound profile.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and TTC Silent Red switches both contribute to their unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound and nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in how these materials are utilized in the switches, particularly split between the top and bottom housing, lead to variations in the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately offer high-quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, their bottom out forces differ significantly, with the Gold Silver switch having an unknown bottom out force, while the Silent Red switch requires a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Red switch the heavier of the two options. The actuation force being the same means that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness when typing on either switch. The weight of the switches is crucial to consider as it impacts the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Silver switch for extended typing sessions, while users desiring a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm for faster response times, while those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Silent Red switch with its slightly longer 3.7 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness and feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is best described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep and rich sound profile that provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is characterized by its muted sound, making it a great choice for environments where noise is a concern. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Gold Silver providing a more resonant and impactful sound, and the Silent Red offering a quieter and more subdued typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press that minimizes friction and maximizes comfort. The switch also provides a mild and subtle resistance, ensuring a gentle typing feel that is suitable for various users. Conversely, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery and polished, providing a fluid and effortless keystroke experience that is consistent from top to bottom. Both switches offer a comfortable and smooth typing feel, with the Gold Silver focusing more on refined and gentle resistance, while the Silent Red emphasizes a seamless and uniform typing sensation.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver switch excels in providing a rapid and decisive typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, along with a polished and silky feel that enhances the overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch offers a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel that prioritizes a quiet and seamless typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches cater to different needs, but ultimately deliver a high-quality typing experience that is smooth, comfortable, and responsive. Whether choosing the Gold Silver for its impactful sound and refined feel, or the Silent Red for its quiet operation and buttery typing experience, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value rapid responsiveness, a resonant sound profile, and smooth key travel, the Gold Silver is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, maximum comfort, and a padded bottom-out feel, the Silent Red is the better choice. The Gold Silver is ideal for those seeking speed and precision, while the Silent Red is perfect for those who prioritize a silent and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more