Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and TTC Speed Silver emerge as compelling options, each catering to distinct user preferences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB stands out for its tactile feedback, offering a refined and satisfying bump that is both short and medium-strength, ideal for those who appreciate a responsive typing experience developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is designed for speed and precision, featuring a light-medium resistance and a reduced travel distance that enables rapid actuation—a perfect fit for gamers and typists alike who prioritize quick performance. While the MX Purple enhances typing with its tactile appeal, the Speed Silver excels in delivering an effortless, fluid experience. 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
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 examining the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the TTC Speed Silver switches, a notable contrast arises in their top housings. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing which is known for its softer qualities, contributing to a deeper, fuller sound profile that can evoke a more muted auditory experience during key presses. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver has a polycarbonate top housing that is inherently stiffer, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This distinct structural property not only affects the acoustic characteristics of the switches but also their aesthetic design; the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced visibility of RGB lighting, giving it an edge for users who prioritize illumination effects while typing.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the MX Purple RGB and the Speed Silver utilize nylon materials, meaning they share similar acoustic properties when it comes to the sound profile generated during key presses. Both switches will offer a consistently deeper and rounder auditory experience due to the nylon’s softness, which helps absorb sound rather than amplify it. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing either switch will be characterized by this warm and muted quality, creating a uniform tactile experience despite the differences in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of a nylon bottom housing in both switches aligns their auditory responses when pressed, while their unique top housings lead to varying acoustic performance on release. Users who aim for a cohesive sound experience might find satisfaction in the MX Purple RGB for its deeper tone, while those who prefer a sharper, more resonant sound might gravitate toward the TTC Speed Silver. The split in materials emphasizes the importance of considering each housing's impact on sound and feel, affirming the crucial role both the top and bottom housings play in defining the overall switch experience.
Weight
The actuation force of both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the same at 45 grams, indicating that users can expect a similar feel when initially pressing down on either switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the TTC Speed Silver has a force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unknown. This means that while both switches will require the same effort to initiate a keystroke, the TTC Speed Silver offers a more substantial feel when pressing down all the way, as it provides feedback at a heavier bottom out force. As a result, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch can be categorized as the lighter option overall, appealing to those who prefer less strain during extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the TTC Speed Silver, with its heavier bottom-out aspect, may cater to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference highlights a distinct preference: the longer 4 mm travel distance of the MX Purple RGB may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming, offering a hearty depth that some users find satisfying. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver, with its 3.4 mm travel distance, caters to gamers looking for a quicker response time and a more immediate actuation. For those who prioritize speed and rapid key presses, the shorter travel distance of the TTC Speed Silver may provide a more efficient experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a deeper tactile feel or a rapid response.
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 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 Purple RGB switch provides a refined auditory experience, characterized by a moderate and balanced tonal profile that exudes a crisp bump without being overly harsh or loud. This makes it suitable for a variety of settings, as it strikes a middle ground in sound, appealing to both casual users and enthusiasts alike. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound, meaning it produces a moderate sound profile that isn't too sharp or bass-heavy, making it versatile for both home and office environments. While the MX Purple RGB offers a more pronounced auditory feedback due to its tactile bump, the Speed Silver's sound remains unobtrusive, which can be beneficial in quieter settings.
In terms of feel, the MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump that provides clear feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response with each keystroke. The tactile bump is well-defined, allowing typists to discern when a key has been activated without bottoming out. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches are described as offering a mild feel, resulting in a gentle typing experience that's approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. Their polished finish contributes to a smooth key travel, ensuring minimal friction and a smooth typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. While the MX Purple RGB emphasizes tactile feedback, the Speed Silver prioritizes a sleek and effortless keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the TTC Speed Silver switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard world. The MX Purple RGB is ideal for users who appreciate a distinct tactile bump and a balanced sound profile, while the Speed Silver targets those who prioritize speed and smoothness with a neutral sound that fits into various environments. If you're exploring a switch that offers different qualities, both options provide a unique take on the mechanical typing experience, allowing you to tailor your keyboard to your specific needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch should ultimately reflect your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a tactile feedback with a distinct bump that signifies actuation and enjoy a slightly heavier feel without bottoming out, the MX Purple RGB is an excellent option for you. This switch offers a refined experience that can enhance both gaming and typing, making it suitable for those who crave a more engaged typing interaction. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision, especially for fast-paced gaming or rapid typing, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch may be the better choice. Its low actuation distance and neutral sound profile allow for quick keystrokes, making it ideal for situations where responsiveness is key. In essence, the MX Purple RGB caters to those who enjoy tactile feedback and a balanced typing experience, while the Speed Silver is perfect for users seeking smooth, swift interactions without the distraction of noticeable sound or excessive force. Consider what aspects are most important for your use case, and you'll find the perfect switch that fits your needs.
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