Cherry MX Orange vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange switches are renowned for their revival of the original MX Orange design, incorporating enhancements from the MX2A generation, making them a great option for enthusiasts who appreciate the legacy and tactile feedback they offer. Their balanced characteristics provide a satisfying typing experience while maintaining a degree of resistance that can be beneficial for those who do a lot of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches cater to users who prioritize speed and efficiency, thanks to their shorter travel distance that enables rapid actuation. With a light-medium level of resistance and a smooth, polished sound profile, these switches stand out for gamers and typists alike looking for a swift, precise response in their keystrokes. Both switches have their unique advantages, whether you're interested in a nostalgic touch or a performance-oriented design. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the TTC Speed Silver switches, a notable distinction exists in the type of materials used for the top housing. The MX Orange features a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and more absorbent nature. This characteristic allows the switch to deliver a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate lends itself to clearer resonation, providing a high-pitched auditory feedback, which is noticeably distinct from the MX Orange's output.
However, when we examine the bottom housing of both switches, they'll reveal their similarities with both using nylon as the material. This use of nylon contributes to a consistent sound signature, as it absorbs sound effectively, generating that same rounded and fuller auditory experience. Thus, regardless of their different top housing materials, both switches share the common property of their nylon bottom housings, making their bottom-out sounds more aligned. Consequently, users can expect a similar tactile feel and bottoming-out sound from both switches when engaged, showcasing the effectiveness of nylon in creating a consistent experience.
These differences in top housing materials influence how each switch responds both acoustically and tactically. While the MX Orange will provide a more muted and fuller sound upon release, the Speed Silver will offer a distinct and resonant experience, benefiting from the clarity provided by its polycarbonate top. Ultimately, a user's choice between these two may rest on their auditory preferences, as the bottom housing's nylon material will ensure a shared quality in terms of sound absorption, providing a middle ground in the overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, key differences arise that cater to distinct user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is significantly heavier than the TTC Speed Silver's lighter 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, while the Speed Silver features a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Cherry MX Orange offers a more substantial typing experience, which some users may prefer for tactile feedback and a stronger push. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver, being lighter in actuation force, may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming marathons, providing ease of use for those who prefer less resistance. Thus, while both switches have their merits, the Cherry MX Orange is the heavier option, while the TTC Speed Silver stands out for its lighter actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it align with the traditional depth that many users prefer for a more substantial key press. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to those who favor a quicker, more responsive experience often desired by gamers. Consequently, for users who appreciate a hearty depth when typing, the Cherry MX Orange would be the preferable choice, while those seeking faster response times might opt for the TTC Speed Silver due to its shorter travel distance. Thus, the MX Orange offers a longer travel distance compared to the Speed Silver, illustrating how user preferences can significantly influence the choice between these two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch has a reputation that may be nuanced, but the specifics of its audio profile are not detailed here. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, which features a moderate actuation force and is versatile enough to fit both casual and professional environments. This neutrality makes the Speed Silver adaptable for any setting, be it at home or in an office. However, it's important to keep in mind that sound is also affected by factors like the choice of keyboard construction and keycaps, so while one might expect a more balanced sound experience from the Speed Silver, it doesn’t discount the potential auditory qualities of the MX Orange.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch's tactile characteristics are not explicitly defined in this context. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a distinctly mild typing experience, making it more approachable for users of all skill levels. The polished nature of the Speed Silver adds to its refinement, facilitating smooth key travel and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek touch that is potentially satisfying for prolonged typing sessions. Such feedback provides an enjoyable experience that caters to a wide demographic, including beginners and seasoned typists, effectively making it a robust option for various needs.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange may have an established legacy that suggests a specific type of experience, the TTC Speed Silver stands out with its neutral sound profile and polished feel, offering smooth and gentle feedback during use. Both switches could deliver satisfactory results depending on individual preferences, though the unspecified details of the MX Orange leave a gap in understanding its comparative attributes. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal taste and the specific needs of the typist.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Orange and TTC Speed Silver linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a switch that provides a smooth and refined typing experience, along with a neutral sound profile, then the TTC Speed Silver is likely the better option for you. It offers a light-medium resistance that allows for quick actuation, making it ideal for fast typists, gamers, or those who frequently switch between different tasks. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that emphasizes a nostalgic feel with an appealing character while still delivering a satisfying typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange could be the way to go, particularly if you’re seeking something that captures the essence of the original MX switches. Ultimately, consider what you prioritize most—whether it's speed and precision or a classic feel—before making your selection, as both switches hold unique strengths that cater to different needs.
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