Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver, a linear switch, to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), a tactile switch, there are clear distinctions to consider. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast response time, making it ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a tactile typing experience with a medium level of resistance, ensuring comfort and accuracy without the noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. While the MX Speed Silver is best suited for gaming due to its immediate triggering capability, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is perfect for office or shared living spaces where quietness is a priority. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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 Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), it is clear that they both utilize different materials for their top housings. The nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White (V2) creates a sharper and crisper sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, whereas the stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering a unique visual appeal compared to the opaque nylon.
On the other hand, when comparing the bottom housing materials of the MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), it is revealed that both switches actually utilize nylon for this component. This shared material means that the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, such as creating a deeper and fuller sound profile through sound absorption, are consistent between the two switches. This similarity in bottom housing material may lead to comparable typing experiences when it comes to the sound and feel of pressing down on the keys, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) differ in their top housing materials – nylon for the former and polycarbonate for the latter – they share a common bottom housing material of nylon. This distinction results in unique sound characteristics between the switches, with the MX Speed Silver offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and aesthetic appeal of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 42 grams. However, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has an unknown bottom out force, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it heavier in this aspect. For those who prefer a light and smooth typing experience, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial feel when typing may prefer the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, particularly gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users - the MX Speed Silver will provide a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch may offer a slightly more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver for $4.00.
The TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 Speed Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, producing a deep and rich sound that is both satisfying and low in pitch. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch provides a muted sound, making it softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches. The Silent Bluish White (V2) is designed to minimize noise, which is ideal for environments where noise levels need to be controlled, such as offices or shared living spaces.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured feel, which means there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. This can provide tactile feedback to the user during typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. The switch has a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a gentle resistance and a subtle typing feel. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is best suited for gamers looking for a quick and responsive typing experience with a distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switch caters to those who value a quiet typing experience with a satisfying level of resistance and tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and use case, you can choose between the two switches to achieve similar results in terms of speed, comfort, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you are a gamer looking for maximum speed and instant response, the MX Speed Silver is the way to go. Its linear action and low spring resistance make it ideal for gaming where quick reflexes are crucial. On the other hand, if you prioritize a comfortable and quiet typing experience, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is the better choice. With its medium tactile feel and quiet operation, it is perfect for office or shared living spaces. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and responsiveness or comfort and silence in your typing experience.
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