Cherry MX Black vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the TTC Silent Frozen. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that has been perfected by Cherry with their new Hyperglide tooling. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness, accompanied by a familiar deep sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is also a linear switch known for its extremely quiet sound profile. These switches provide a super smooth typing experience and have a pillowy feel. While the MX Black is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff', the Silent Frozen is described as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Buttery', 'Muted', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the TTC Silent Frozen utilize different housing materials in both their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The MX Black's nylon top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the MX Black produces a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Frozen's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially notable when using RGB lighting with its translucent quality.
Although different materials are used for the housings, similar results can be achieved with both switches. Both the MX Black and the Silent Frozen offer a satisfying tactile experience when pressing down on the switch. However, the material used in the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the material used in the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific sound profiles may differ, users can still obtain comparable results in terms of typing experience between the Cherry MX Black and the TTC Silent Frozen.
In terms of aesthetic appeal, the materials used in the top housing of the switches are particularly important. The MX Black's nylon top housing does not offer the translucent quality that the Silent Frozen's polycarbonate top housing provides. The clear polycarbonate housing is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through and enhance the visual experience. On the other hand, the opaque nature of the nylon top housing of the MX Black may be preferred by those looking for a more traditional and classic appearance. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on individual preferences in terms of both sound and visual aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are clear differences in their weight. The MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen offers a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This lighter weight is beneficial for individuals who prefer a keyboard that allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. Both switches have their advantages - the MX Black providing a more forceful typing experience, and the Silent Frozen offering a lighter touch. If one desires a similar result to the MX Black, they could opt for the Silent Frozen and apply additional pressure to achieve a similar bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black and TTC Silent Frozen linear switches have different travel distances. The MX Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the Silent Frozen switch would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the MX Black switch with its longer travel distance may be a better option. Both switches offer their own advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 Cherry MX Black linear switch is best known for its low-pitched profile, which gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a deep sound that many users find satisfying when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is characterized as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when pressed and released. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switch is also described as low-pitched and muted, providing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a textured experience, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. While some users prefer this subtle texture, others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Furthermore, the MX Black switch is known for being stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch provides a creamy and buttery typing experience. This smooth and fluid keystroke sensation is achieved through lubrication applied at the factory and/or specific materials used in the switch. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing experience. The Silent Frozen switch is also described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Moreover, it is subtle and polished, providing a gentle resistance with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black offers a deep and low-pitched sound, along with a textured and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, with a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. While they offer different experiences, if you're looking for a similar result, both switches provide smoothness in operation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a heavier switch with a deep sound profile and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a sturdy and stable typing experience. With Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, they offer a classic textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with an extremely quiet sound profile and a pillowy type feel, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch would be a better option. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches are super smooth and have a quiet and satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed. They also offer a creamy and buttery typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable feel for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and TTC Silent Frozen switches depends on your personal preferences for switch weight, sound, and feel.
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