TTC Iron vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red, both being linear switches, some distinctions become apparent. The TTC Iron is revered for its pronounced clacky sound and light actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience with swift and fatigue-free keystrokes. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red, a variant of the MX Red switch, offers a similar feel but operates silently, making it perfect for environments where noise is a concern. While the TTC Iron is lauded for its precision and pleasure in typing, the MX Silent Red provides a quieter alternative without compromising on the 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
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Cherry MX Silent Red, both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Iron uses a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which also produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the nylon material absorbs more sound than POM, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Overall, both switches offer a unique sound experience due to their housing materials.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the typing experience of a switch. The POM bottom housing of the TTC Iron contributes to its pleasing and unique sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Silent Red brings depth and fullness to the sound profile, creating a satisfying typing sensation. While both switches differ in their bottom housing material, they both offer a tactile and enjoyable typing experience thanks to the properties of POM and nylon.
On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. The POM top housing of the TTC Iron produces a relatively more muted sound, adding to the overall distinctive sound profile of the switch. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Silent Red creates a deeper and fuller sound, leading to a rich typing experience. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches deliver a satisfying sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Whether it's the POM of the TTC Iron or the nylon of the Cherry MX Silent Red, users can expect a unique sound and feel when using these switches.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. When it comes to bottoming out, the Iron switch has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red switch remains unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Iron switch may be the better choice. However, if a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel is desired, the MX Silent Red switch may be more appealing. Both switches offer different weight preferences to cater to the diverse needs of keyboard users, providing options for those who prioritize either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the TTC Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, with the Cherry MX Silent Red being the shortest of the two. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cherry MX Silent Red due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a bit more key depth and a less abrupt feel may lean towards the TTC Iron with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy noise with each press, enhancing the typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted sound profile, significantly quieter than traditional mechanical switches, making it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Iron delivering a more pronounced and lively sound, while the MX Silent Red maintains a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is revered for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In comparison, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as providing a textured feel, which may offer a different tactile sensation than the smooth travel of the Iron. While the Iron focuses on a gentle and comfortable typing experience, the MX Silent Red introduces a unique texture that some users may find appealing for its distinct feel.
Overall, both the TTC Iron linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer their own set of subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iron excels in providing a clacky and light actuation feel with buttery smooth travel, appealing to users seeking precision and pleasure in every keystroke. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red stands out for its muted sound profile and textured feel, offering a quieter typing experience with a slightly heftier touch. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to different user needs, ensuring that regardless of choice, users can expect quality performance and responsiveness from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a distinctive clacky sound and light actuation force for a satisfying typing experience, then the TTC Iron linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel but with a significantly quieter sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments, then the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is the way to go. Consider your preference for sound and feel carefully to determine which switch will best suit your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, providing a personalized typing experience tailored to your liking.
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