Gateron Mars vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and TTC Speed Silver stand out as two compelling linear options, each offering distinct advantages for different types of users. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, featuring a POK stem housed in a proprietary blend of Nylon and POM, which promises a smooth typing experience with a unique tactile feel. On the other hand, TTC Speed Silver switches are tailored for those seeking speed and precision in their key presses, boasting a light-medium resistance and a reduced travel distance that facilitate rapid actuation and effortless typing. While the Mars switches may appeal to users who appreciate a unique construction and perhaps a slightly different typing sensation, the Speed Silver is ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize performance and quick response times. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The comparison between the housing materials of the Gateron Mars and the TTC Speed Silver switches reveals notable differences that significantly impact their acoustic profiles and overall feel during use. The Mars features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic construction. This quality allows the nylon material to absorb more sound, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer composition. This material typically generates a crisper, higher-pitched sound, giving the typing experience a sharper and clearer resonance, particularly advantageous in setups featuring RGB lighting.
Moving to the bottom housings, another striking contrast is observed. The Gateron Mars employs a POM bottom housing, which is praised for providing a unique sound profile that leans toward the muted side, complementing the deeper sound generated by the nylon top housing. Meanwhile, the TTC Speed Silver opts for a nylon bottom housing. This choice results in a sound profile that echoes the top housing's characteristics, producing a deeper and fuller auditory response. This shared use of nylon in the Speed Silver’s bottom housing means that while the top housing distinguishes the sound profile, the bottom housing contributes to the overall auditory experience while maintaining the deeper tones that many typists appreciate.
In considering the combined effect of the housing materials on each switch's performance, it becomes evident that the interaction between different materials results in a unique typing experience. The Mars leverages the contrasting properties of nylon and POM, leading to a sound profile that is both rounded and full, while the Speed Silver seeks a more consistent sound through the use of nylon in both housing components, amplified by the clarity introduced by polycarbonate at the top. Ultimately, while the differing materials may yield distinct sound qualities, each switch offers its own character—one through the deep resonance of the nylon and POM combination, and the other through the enhanced clarity afforded by polycarbonate paired with nylon—demonstrating how unique combinations of housing materials can shape the typing experience in varied ways.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a uniform requirement to trigger a keystroke for both options. This similarity suggests that users will experience a similarly responsive feel when pressing the keys. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is a medium-light resistance, while the bottom out force for the Gateron Mars switch is unknown. This means that, while the actuation forces are equivalent, the Speed Silver will feel noticeably heavier upon fully pressing down the key. For those who prefer a lighter switch for extensive typing or prolonged gaming sessions, the Gateron Mars would be more suitable, provided the bottom out force doesn't exceed 55 grams. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver offers a more substantial typing experience, making it appealing for those who enjoy a heftier feeling in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, the Gateron Mars features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switches. Gamers, who often favor shorter travel distances for quicker actuation and improved response times, might lean towards the Speed Silver. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial depth in keystrokes may find the Gateron Mars more satisfying due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: opt for the TTC Speed Silver if you value faster responses, or select the Gateron Mars for a more pronounced keypress experience.
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 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
The sound profile of the Gateron Mars switch is not specified, leaving a gap in information about its acoustic characteristics. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance that can be suitable for different environments, whether for home or office use. This moderate sound level means it won't be overly disruptive to those around you, making it a versatile choice for a range of typing scenarios. When considering sound, it is essential to remember that factors such as the keyboard’s build and keycap material will influence the overall auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars switch has unspecified tactile qualities, which makes it harder to draw direct comparisons. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic ensures a gentle typing experience that can accommodate a wide range of users, from novices to seasoned typists. Its polished nature means that users will benefit from a smooth and refined key press, significantly reducing friction during use. This combination provides an overall user-friendly typing sensation, enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions.
In summary, while the Gateron Mars switch lacks specific details regarding its sound and feel, the TTC Speed Silver switch presents itself as a well-rounded option with a neutral sound and a mild, polished tactile experience. Both switches may cater to different preferences, but if sound and feel were similar, you would expect to achieve comparable typing results with either choice. For those seeking a dependable and adaptable switch, the Speed Silver would likely be a reliable option, while the qualities of the Mars remain a mystery waiting to be explored.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, your specific needs and typing style will play a crucial role. If you prioritize an innovative design and a unique feel, the Gateron Mars may be suitable for your preferences, especially if you enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience that might pair well with a variety of keycap designs. However, details on its sound profile were not mentioned, so keep in mind that this might be a factor if you work in quieter environments. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that excels in speed and precise actuation, the TTC Speed Silver should be your go-to. With its medium-light bottom-out force, a refined, polished feel, and a neutral sound profile, it’s ideal for those who frequently type or game fast and require a responsive switch without much resistance. Ultimately, the choice hinges on your typing style and environment, so consider what feels best for you and what enhances your overall experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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