Gateron Mars vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Gateron Mars, a linear switch, is celebrated for its innovative design featuring a POK stem and a blend of Nylon and POM in its housing, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with no tactile bump or audible click. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers or those who prefer a seamless keystroke without distractions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a medium tactile feel, delivering a satisfying level of resistance with each press, making it ideal for typists who appreciate feedback while wanting to maintain a quiet environment. The muted yet polished design of the Silent Bluish Whites ensures that you can type confidently without disturbing those around you, perfect for office settings or shared living spaces. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Mars and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches, the differences in their housing materials significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Mars employs a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer texture that absorbs sound waves more effectively than many harder plastics. This results in a sound that is duller and rounder, creating an experience that may feel more subdued when typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This intrinsic stiffness contributes to a clearer resonance, making the sound profile distinctively different from that of the Mars. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency is advantageous for users who prioritize RGB lighting, as it enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
On the bottom housing front, the differences continue: the Mars utilizes a POM bottom housing, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is crafted with nylon. The POM material in the Mars switch lends an intriguing depth to its sound profile, characterized as muted and more balanced, which aligns with the overall acoustic philosophy of the switch. On the other hand, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) reintroduces the softer sound quality associated with nylon materials. This results in a deeper and fuller sound that complements the softer tones produced by the nylon top housing. The contrast of POM's unique sound profile with nylon's softer qualities illustrates how each switch can provide a tailored typing experience despite their differing materials.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housings in each switch establishes the overall sound and tactile feedback. The Gateron Mars, with its nylon top and POM bottom, harmonizes to produce a sound that is warm and round, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) malevolently combines its polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom to achieve a crisper acoustic experience. Even though their housing materials differ, both switches can create a satisfying typing experience by exploiting the tonal qualities inherent to each material. The distinct effect each material has on sound reproduction means that users will experience a unique character with every key press, regardless of the switch choice, so if a user is looking for a particular sound profile, understanding these contrasts can ensure an informed decision.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, we see differing characteristics in their actuation forces. The Mars switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mars switch's information is unavailable, whereas the Silent Bluish White (V2) features a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier option for the complete press. Given this, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) will likely provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Gateron Mars, with its lighter actuation force, may be more suitable for users looking for a switch that allows for comfortable, prolonged use, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, those selecting between the two can expect a different tactile experience based on these weight considerations.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, we find that the Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This results in the Mars switch offering a more pronounced travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper keystroke for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, those who opt for the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) may appreciate the marginally shorter travel distance, which could provide quicker actuation and responsiveness. Thus, the Gateron Mars is the longer option and may suit those who enjoy a more hearty feel, whereas the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a shorter distance that may be better for gamers or users looking for rapid response times.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 $4.63.
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 Gateron Mars switch remains somewhat undefined, leaving it open to interpretation and individual experience. However, it is likely that the unique blend of materials used in its construction contributes to its sound profile, producing a distinct auditory experience that could vary depending on the keyboard setup. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is characterized by its muted sound, designed specifically to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Bluish White switches an excellent choice for environments where quietness is paramount, providing a softer typing sound without sacrificing the tactile feedback expected from a mechanical switch.
In terms of feel, while the specifics of the Mars switch's tactile sensation remain unspecified, we can infer that its unique POK stem design contributes to a distinct typing experience. The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), on the other hand, is well-regarded for its buttery smoothness, providing a gentle yet responsive typing experience. This switch features mild tactility, offering a pleasant balance for users who may prefer a less pronounced tactile bump. The stepped nature of the tactile feedback gives it a subtle, dual-stage feel that many find approachable, coupled with a polished finish that enhances the overall smoothness of key travel. This combination ensures that users experience a refined and comfortable typing sensation while minimizing the stress on fingers during longer typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Gateron Mars linear switch remain less defined, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) offers a clear advantage in sound modulation and an impressive tactile profile. Users seeking a quiet typing experience will gravitate towards the Silent Bluish White, which balances tactility and sound in a way that is suitable for various environments. The Gateron Mars switch, while less described, may still offer a unique feel that could appeal to those looking for something different, but without specific qualities outlined, its experience remains more ambiguous. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a muted sound profile and refined feel or are curious to explore the potential of the Mars switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smoother, more fluid keystroke experience without the added noise, the Gateron Mars may be the right choice for you. Since these switches are designed for seamless typing and feature a unique POK stem combined with a durable Nylon and POM housing, they can enhance your overall typing speed and comfort, making them ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you seek a well-rounded tactile experience that offers subtle feedback without being disruptive, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) is an excellent option. With a light bottom-out force and muted sound signature, these switches excel in quieter environments, making them suitable for the office or shared living spaces. Moreover, their polished feel and mild resistance provide a balanced typing experience that caters to casual typists and gamers alike. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a linear switch's smoothness and responsiveness or a tactile switch's feedback and sound-dampening qualities.
Mentioned in this article
