Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, two popular options that highlight distinct typing experiences are the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the TTC Silent Red switches. The Cherry MX Purple is renowned for its tactile feedback, featuring a refined medium-strength bump that provides a satisfying sense of activation, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a noticeable response with each keystroke. Developed in collaboration with keyboard expert Glarses, these switches cater to enthusiasts who appreciate tactile switches for both gaming and typing purposes. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is celebrated for its linear design, offering a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience without the clicky noise that often accompanies other switch types. This makes the Silent Reds particularly suited for shared workspaces or quiet environments, where a muted sound profile is highly desirable. While the Cherry MX Purple enhances the joy of tactile feedback, the TTC Silent Red excels in providing a sleek, noiseless experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Purple RGB and the TTC Silent Red switches, one notable distinction lies in their top housings. The MX Purple RGB utilizes a nylon material, which is renowned for its softer characteristics that yield a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softness contributes to a sound that is more muted and rounded, potentially enhancing the typing experience for users who prefer a subdued auditory feedback. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red opts for polycarbonate in its top housing, a material that is significantly stiffer and thus generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate not only impacts the sound produced during key release but also provides a more vibrant aesthetic, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
The bottom housings of both switches reveal a commonality, as both the MX Purple RGB and the TTC Silent Red are constructed from nylon. This similarity in material means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile from the bottom housing. The soft plastic of nylon not only absorbs sound effectively but also contributes to the overall feel of the switches, especially during the bottom-out impact. Regardless of the variations in their top housings, both switches will produce a consistent auditory experience while bottoming out, reflecting the characteristics of the nylon material in the bottom housing.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB and TTC Silent Red switches boast differing sound profiles due to the materials used in their top housings—nylon versus polycarbonate—they share a common foundation through their nylon bottom housings. This mixed material approach allows users to appreciate the individual sound qualities of each switch while still benefiting from the rich acoustic profile that nylon can provide from the bottom. As such, those looking for a switch that combines a quiet, nuanced typing experience with the visual appeal of RGB lighting may find value in the unique characteristics offered by both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect a comparable level of resistance when pressing down on either switch to register a keystroke, making them suitable for long typing sessions without excessive strain. However, the bottom out force differs significantly; the Silent Red switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating that it requires a stronger push to press the key all the way down compared to the MX Purple RGB, for which the bottom out force is unknown. As a result, while both switches deliver a similar initial resistance, the Silent Red's heavier bottom out force may cater to those who prefer a more substantial feedback when typing, whereas the Cherry MX Purple offers a potentially lighter overall experience. Thus, the Silent Red can be deemed the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB is relatively lighter, especially in terms of actuation.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that provides a more pronounced feel and depth when typing, the MX Purple RGB is the better choice, offering that extra 0.3 mm of travel that some users appreciate for a more tactile response. Conversely, the Silent Red, with its 3.7 mm travel distance, may cater better to gamers or users who prefer quicker actuation for faster response times. Overall, the MX Purple RGB provides a longer, more substantial travel experience compared to the TTC Silent Red, making it suitable for those who value a deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches produce a tactile bump, which typically creates a bit more noise than a linear switch, but the exact sound profile can depend on the keyboard construction and keycap choice. This can result in a moderately audible typing experience that may be more noticeable in a quiet environment. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switches are designed to offer a muted auditory experience, significantly reducing the sound typically associated with mechanical typing. Their design minimizes noise with a soft sound profile, making them an excellent option for quieter settings like offices or shared spaces where noise can be an issue.
On the tactile front, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a refined tactile experience characterized by a medium-strength bump that provides satisfying feedback without being overly harsh. This makes them both engaging and approachable for typists and gamers alike. Meanwhile, the TTC Silent Red switches are renowned for their buttery smoothness, offering a seamless keystroke with a gentle touch. They score high on comfort with a polished feel that minimizes friction, resulting in a very smooth and pleasant typing experience. Overall, Silent Reds provide a more gentle interaction, while the MX Purple RGBs give you that tactile feedback that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts enjoy.
In summary, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback and are not overly concerned about noise, effectively positioning themselves as a middle-ground option among mechanical switches. On the other hand, those who prioritize a quieter and smoother typing experience would find the TTC Silent Red switches to be a perfect fit. Each switch offers a distinct experience, but if you're looking for a softer touch without the noise, the Silent Reds excel in that area. Ultimately, the choice between these two will largely hinge on your preferences for tactile feedback versus smooth operation and sound levels, aligning your selection with your specific typing environment and style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with a refined, medium-strength bump during typing and want the visual flair of RGB lighting, the Cherry MX Purple is undoubtedly a great choice. This switch allows for an engaging typing experience, making it ideal for gaming and general typing when you’re seeking a nice balance of feedback and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a quiet office or shared living space where noise is a concern, the TTC Silent Red is the superior option. With its muted sound profile and smooth, buttery feel, this switch encourages a seamless and comfortable typing experience without the annoyance of clacky noises. The slightly heavier bottom-out force can enhance the stability of each keypress. Thus, whether you're after an engaging tactile experience or a whisper-quiet environment, both switches have unique advantages that cater to different user needs, allowing you to choose comfortably according to your specific requirements.
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