Cherry MX Silent Red vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features and advantages. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments, while still maintaining the satisfying typing feel of the MX Red. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver offers a fast and precise typing experience with a reduced travel distance for quick actuation. Each switch has its own characteristics, with the MX Silent Red categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured' and the TTC Speed Silver as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Silent Red and the TTC Speed Silver, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. The bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall sound and feel of the switch, making nylon a popular choice for this component in mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, the top housings of these two switches differ in material, with the MX Silent Red incorporating nylon while the TTC Speed Silver uses polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is especially advantageous for switches featuring RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more visually appealing experience. The top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the impact of different material choices on the overall typing experience.
While the bottom housings of the Cherry MX Silent Red and TTC Speed Silver share the same nylon material, the contrasting top housings of nylon and polycarbonate provide varying sound profiles for each switch. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver produces a sharper and clearer sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their carefully selected housing materials, catering to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific sound profile.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red and TTC Speed Silver linear switches both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch and extended typing sessions, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance may lean towards the TTC Speed Silver. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Silent Red. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Speed Silver due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile feel may opt for the MX Silent Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, and the choice between them will depend on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Silent Red switch stands out for its muted and low-pitched qualities, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The MX Silent Red offers a more subdued and bass-heavy sound, while the Speed Silver delivers a more balanced and moderate sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, providing a unique tactile feedback that some users may appreciate for its friction when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. While the MX Silent Red caters to those who prefer a more noticeable texture in their switches, the Speed Silver appeals to users looking for a gentler and smoother typing feel.
Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red and TTC Speed Silver switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a textured feel, the MX Silent Red would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you value a neutral sound profile and a smoother, polished typing feel, the Speed Silver switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide reliable and precise performance, and you can expect similar results in terms of durability and responsiveness regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive settings, the MX Silent Red is the way to go with its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you value speed and precision in your typing with a neutral sound profile, the TTC Speed Silver is the better option. Additionally, take into account your preference for a textured feel with the MX Silent Red or a mild and polished feel with the TTC Speed Silver. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your priorities for sound, typing speed, and tactile feel.
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