Cherry MX Red vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches like the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Speed Silver, it's important to consider your typing preferences. The MX Red is a classic switch favored for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is known for its fast and precise typing experience, offering light-medium resistance and a pristine sound profile. While the MX Red suits those who prefer a 'thocky' and low-pitched feel, the Speed Silver caters to those who value a neutral and polished typing 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Speed Silver, it is evident that the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, giving a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in sound profiles is largely attributed to the difference in material properties, with nylon emphasizing a softer sound and polycarbonate enhancing clarity and resonance.
While both the MX Red and Speed Silver utilize nylon bottom housings, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. Nylon's softer nature allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and dull sound upon bottoming out. Regardless of the switch type, the nylon bottom housing is consistent in its impact on sound profile, emphasizing the deep and rich tones associated with nylon material. In contrast, polycarbonate's presence in the top housing of the Speed Silver contributes to a more crisp and sharp sound profile, providing a distinct sound experience when pressing and releasing a key.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom components of a switch highlights how each material brings unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of typing. The split of nylon and polycarbonate housings in the MX Red and Speed Silver switches allows for a varied sound experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. Whether using the MX Red with its nylon housing or the Speed Silver with its polycarbonate housing, the choice of material greatly impacts the sound profile and typing experience, offering users distinct options based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red switch is unknown. This indicates that the TTC Speed Silver switch may provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Red switch. The weight of the switch is an important factor to consider, as a lighter switch is preferred by some for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch measures at 4 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Cherry MX Red the longer option between the two. The MX Red's 4 mm distance is more in line with traditional switch travel distances, offering a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance is shallower, providing a quicker response time that may be preferred by gamers looking for speed and agility in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer, more tactile feel, or a shorter, faster response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and users. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is noted for its textured feel, providing users with a tactile sensation when typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smoother and more refined key travel. These qualities make the Speed Silver switches approachable to most users due to their middle-ground characteristics.
Overall, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a lighter resistance and a pristine sound, the TTC Speed Silver switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your personal typing preferences and requirements. However, it is important to consider that individual preferences can vary, and trying out both switches on a keyboard can provide a more accurate assessment of which one suits you best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Cherry MX Red if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with responsiveness and auditory depth. On the other hand, opt for the TTC Speed Silver if you value a fast and precise typing experience with light-medium resistance and a reduced travel distance for quick actuation. The Cherry MX Red is best for those who enjoy a thocky and low-pitched sound, while the TTC Speed Silver offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red has a textured experience, while the TTC Speed Silver provides a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation speed.
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