Cherry MX Red vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Silent Red, both being linear switches. The MX Red is renowned for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Silent Red is favored for its smooth and seamless typing experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter switch option, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Silent Red is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Red Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Red both share a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deep and full sound profile due to the softness of the material absorbing sound effectively. This similarity means that typing on either switch will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their top housing material. The MX Red's nylon top housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. As a result, the choice between the two switches would heavily depend on the sound profile preference of the user, with the MX Red offering a more muted sound and the Silent Red providing a more distinct and resonant sound.

While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, their top housing materials impact the overall sound profile in different ways. The MX Red's nylon top housing absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, which can be especially advantageous for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a desirable choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. Therefore, the choice between the two switches would not only depend on sound preferences but also on whether RGB lighting is a factor in the decision-making process.

The combination of different top and bottom housing materials in the Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Red switches results in a unique typing experience for each switch. While the nylon bottom housing maintains a consistent sound profile across both switches, the top housing material plays a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of each switch. When typing on a switch, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be noticeable, while the top housing's influence will be more pronounced when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Red switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, with the MX Red offering a more subdued sound and the Silent Red providing a more crisp and resonant sound experience.

Weight

The actuation force of both the Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Red linear switches is 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Red has no specified bottom out force, while the TTC Silent Red has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that the Cherry MX Red may provide a more consistent and smooth typing experience due to its lack of specified bottom out force, while the TTC Silent Red offers a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is preferred.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The MX Red provides a traditional travel distance that offers a balance between quick response time and depth of press. On the other hand, the Silent Red offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance could impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is designed to be muted, providing a softer and quieter typing sound, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. While the MX Red offers a more robust and pronounced sound, the Silent Red ensures a more discreet and subtle typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which may provide some users with increased friction when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its buttery and mild feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation that is comfortable for extended use. The Silent Red switch also boasts a polished finish, reducing friction and ensuring a sleek typing experience. Overall, while the MX Red may appeal to those who prefer a slightly more tactile feel, the Silent Red offers a gentle and uniform typing experience that focuses on comfort.

When considering both the Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Red switches, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The MX Red provides a deeper and more pronounced typing sound with a textured feel, catering to those who enjoy a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red offers a quieter and smoother typing sound with a buttery and polished feel, prioritizing comfort and ease of use. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Red linear switch or the TTC Silent Red linear switch, you need to take into account your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile, along with a textured typing experience, the Cherry MX Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, a buttery feel, and a polished finish, the TTC Silent Red switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what aspects of typing experience are most important to you, whether it be the feel, sound, or overall comfort level of the switch.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more