KTT Miaowu vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Silent Red offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Miaowu boasts enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action thanks to its POK stem, in contrast to switches with conventional POM stems. Known for its 'bouncy' and 'clacky' feel, the Miaowu switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch from TTC is perfect for individuals seeking a quiet and seamless typing experience, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. With its 'buttery', 'mild', and 'muted' characteristics, the Silent Red offers a consistent and comfortable typing feel. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Miaowu and Silent Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, their translucency makes them ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. While the top housings of both switches are the same material, they each have different bottom housings, with the Miaowu utilizing nylon and the Silent Red also using nylon for its bottom housing.
Differences arise in the bottom housing materials of the Miaowu and Silent Red switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. This difference in material impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While both switches have similar top housings made of polycarbonate, the differences in their bottom housings offer varying sound profiles and typing experiences. The split qualities of the housing materials mean that the impact of each material is felt differently when pressing down on the switches. The Miaowu with its nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing creates a slightly different sound profile. Overall, the choice of housing material can greatly influence the overall typing experience and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Red linear switch. The Miaowu requires 43 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Silent Red needs 45 grams to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out. The Miaowu is lighter in both aspects, making it ideal for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Red offers a slightly heavier typing experience with a higher bottom out force, providing a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences for keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Miaowu has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Red, which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how the specific travel distance affects your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch offers a muted sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches aim to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, with the Miaowu being more on the crisp and bright side, while the Silent Red leans towards a quieter and more subdued sound. Ultimately, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Silent Red switch would be the better choice, while the Miaowu switch would cater to those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively typing sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Silent Red switch is also noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you enjoy a more elastic and bouncy typing experience, the Miaowu switch would be more suitable, whereas the Silent Red switch would be preferred for those looking for a smooth and refined typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel experiences for mechanical keyboard users. While the Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Silent Red switch delivers a muted sound and buttery, polished typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for typing noise and feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, both switches are solid choices that would provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics in sound and feel.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a bouncy, clacky feel with enhanced stem stability, the Miaowu switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a smooth and buttery typing experience with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Red switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
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