KTT Laurel vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, both offer a smooth typing experience but with distinct features. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light actuation, full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, providing a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red maintains the classic feel of the MX Red but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Cherry MX Silent Red, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Laurel boasts a POM top and bottom housing, creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer a unique sound experience, the choice between POM and nylon housing materials will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT Laurel and Cherry MX Silent Red, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The POM housing of the Laurel and the nylon housing of the MX Silent Red may have distinct characteristics, but both contribute to a sound that is more muted and rounded. Whether it be typing on the Laurel's POM housing or the MX Silent Red's nylon housing, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that is on the quieter side compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Laurel and Cherry MX Silent Red may influence different aspects of the sound profile, such as bottom-out and key release sound, the overall result is a similar experience in terms of creating a unique and pleasing sound. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities allows users to feel the impact of each housing material when pressing down on a key or releasing it. Ultimately, whether it be the subtle nuances of the POM housing in the Laurel or the absorbing qualities of the nylon housing in the MX Silent Red, both switches offer a satisfying sound experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required. The Laurel has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Silent Red's 45 grams. However, the Laurel has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Silent Red is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Laurel may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Laurel switch for quick keystrokes during gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their key presses might lean towards the Cherry MX Silent Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, as both offer similar performance with a small difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch produces a muted sound profile with a thocky, deep, and satisfying tone, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches feature a low-pitched sound, which means you can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its snappy response, providing a super responsive typing experience thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a textured feel with noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users for a unique typing experience. While their feel may differ, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and snappy feel, offering a balance of responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch excels in providing a muted sound profile and textured feel, making it ideal for quiet environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the KTT Laurel and Cherry MX Silent Red switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you prioritize a light bottom out force, responsiveness, and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and a muted, thocky sound profile, the MX Silent Red switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and noise level in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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