TTC Honey vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The TTC Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch offers a similar typing experience to the popular MX Red switch but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the TTC Honey is described as 'subdued', 'creamy', and 'buttery', the MX Silent Red is characterized as 'muted', 'thocky', and 'low-pitched'. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Honey and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Honey, thanks to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the TTC Honey and Cherry MX Silent Red switches feature different materials. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing, contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiff characteristics. This results in a clear bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing adds to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a rounder bottom-out experience. These contrasting characteristics show how the choice of material in the bottom housing can impact the overall typing experience on these switches.
In summary, while both the TTC Honey and Cherry MX Silent Red switches utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the choice of material for the bottom housing brings about distinct differences in the typing experience. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Honey results in a more resonant and clear sound, while the softer nylon material in the Silent Red creates a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the Honey is lighter in both aspects. The TTC Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cherry MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The Honey switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and less force to bottom out compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red. This makes the Honey switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be more appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the Honey has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the 3.7 mm of the MX Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers looking for fast response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly more pronounced tactile feel with the Honey switch compared to the MX Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 Honey linear switch offers a subdued and pleasant sound profile, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound that is significantly quieter. The Honey switch is not completely silent but offers a more subtle sound compared to most switches, whereas the MX Silent Red switch minimizes noise associated with mechanical keyboards with a deep and satisfying low-pitched tone. The sound produced by both switches will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the TTC Honey linear switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience, described as creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished. Typing on a Honey switch feels like gliding across the keys with ease, offering a silky sensation with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. Users may have preferences for a smoother, friction-free typing experience or enjoy the subtle texture provided by the MX Silent Red switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smoother and creamier typing experience, the TTC Honey switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a significantly quieter sound profile and do not mind a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be a better option. Both switches offer their unique qualities, and choosing between them would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smoother and creamier typing experience with a pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a slightly heftier feel with a significantly quieter sound profile that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, then the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be a better fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the typing feel and sound profile of the switch, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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