TTC Iron vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and TTC Speed Silver are two compelling options to consider. The TTC Iron, a linear switch, stands out for its distinctive clacky sound signature that adds an extra layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. It offers a swift and fatigue-free typing experience, making it ideal for precision-focused users looking for a smooth travel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver, also a linear switch, prioritizes a fast and precise typing experience with its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance. This makes it perfect for users who value quick and effortless actuation. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and TTC Speed Silver both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, resulting in unique sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Iron's POM top and bottom housing create a deep and muted sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall typing experience with a higher pitch. The nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver adds to the fullness of the sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Iron's POM bottom housing. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
While the Iron's POM housing creates a deeper sound profile, the Speed Silver's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, catering to different auditory preferences. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound compared to the Iron's POM bottom housing. The contrasting properties of these housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their sound preferences. Despite their differences, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
In terms of aesthetics, the TTC Iron and Speed Silver differ in their housing materials, with the Iron featuring POM components and the Speed Silver utilizing polycarbonate and nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the Speed Silver's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Iron's POM housing offers a more classic and understated look. Despite their visual differences, both switches prioritize functionality and sound quality, providing users with a range of options to customize their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Iron linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Iron switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Speed Silver switch. The Iron switch has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Speed Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Iron switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press the key down compared to the Speed Silver switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Iron switch may be more suitable. The Speed Silver, with slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the TTC Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the TTC Iron. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Speed Silver to be too abrupt, while others may prefer the more substantial feel of the Iron switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is best known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that adds a satisfying element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory feedback, with the Iron being more distinct in its sound compared to the more subtle Speed Silver.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is renowned for its easy-to-press characteristic, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience. It falls under the category of mild switches, providing a gentle typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch also falls under the mild category, offering a polished feel with smooth key travel due to factory lubing. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience, making them appealing choices for users seeking a light and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, while the TTC Iron and Speed Silver linear switches differ slightly in sound and feel, both switches offer a high level of precision and pleasure in typing. The Iron switch excels in providing a distinctive clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, suitable for enthusiasts and daily users alike. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch offers a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results in terms of performance and typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making the decision between the TTC Iron linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a pronounced clacky sound with light actuation and buttery smooth travel, then the TTC Iron switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance, then the TTC Speed Silver switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing speed. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your personal preferences and typing habits.
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