Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Lightning Silver V3 offers a clacky, high-pitched sound signature with a silky typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a medium tactile feel with a quiet and subtle typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more muted and polished typing experience, especially in shared spaces. 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
48g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, the Lightning Silver V3 stands out with its polycarbonate bottom housing as well, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout the switch.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material brings a unique sound experience to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch, contrasting with the sharper sound profile of the Lightning Silver V3. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch highlights how each material contributes differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3's inclusion of a polycarbonate bottom housing provides a more consistent sound profile compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) with its nylon bottom housing. The choice between a sharp, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound of nylon will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience. Regardless, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the user's typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Bluish White (V2) is the lighter option. The Lightning Silver V3 has a medium actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Silent Bluish White (V2) will provide a lighter typing experience overall. Some users may prefer the lighter feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may gravitate towards the heavier actuation force of the Lightning Silver V3 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter in comparison to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference in distance between the two switches is minimal, it can still have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lightning Silver V3 with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Silent Bluish White (V2) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comparable typing experience, with subtle variations in travel distance to cater to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $5.35.
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
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, making it stand out in a typing environment. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offers a muted sound that minimizes noise, providing a softer and quieter experience. While the Lightning Silver V3 offers a silky smooth typing feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a buttery and mild sensation, with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces or office environments. Overall, if you prefer a louder and more vibrant sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 is the way to go. However, if you prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience with a mild tactile feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you'll get a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a medium bottom out force, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the best choice for you. However, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a lighter bottom out force and a tactile feel, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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