Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and TTC Silent Red are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and needs. The MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast response times, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is perfect for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience, making it suitable for office or shared living spaces. Both switches offer unique characteristics - the MX Speed Silver is known for its textured and thocky feel, while the TTC Silent Red provides a buttery 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Red, one key difference lies in their respective housing materials. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Red boasts a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer their own unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver provides a more mellow and round sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Red delivers a clearer and more resonant sound.
When considering the bottom housings of these switches, both the MX Speed Silver and the Silent Red utilize nylon materials. This results in a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound output. While the top housing may vary between these two switches, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that users can expect consistent sound qualities when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Red may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The softer nylon top and bottom housings of the MX Speed Silver offer a more muted and fuller sound, creating a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Red produces a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the clarity of each keystroke. Whether one prefers a deeper, rounder sound or a more defined, resonant sound, both switches provide reliable performance with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch to the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we see a notable difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The MX Speed Silver is lighter with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Silent Red is heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams. Although the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown, the Silent Red has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the MX Speed Silver will provide a lighter and potentially faster typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Red switch offers a bit more resistance, catering to users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the MX Speed Silver offering a lighter touch and the TTC Silent Red providing a heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the TTC Silent Red. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Red may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper press when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for. Both switches offer their own advantages, whether it be speed or depth, so selecting the right one will ensure a comfortable and efficient typing experience.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 Speed Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and rich sound upon activation. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is recognized for its muted sound profile, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, the MX Speed Silver may provide a more substantial and bass-heavy sound, while the Silent Red offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience, making it suitable for office or shared living spaces.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured action, indicating that there may be noticeable friction when pressing the keys. This texture can vary in intensity, catering to individual preferences for tactile feedback. Conversely, the TTC Silent Red switch is often characterized as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild and polished feel. This results in a uniform and effortless typing sensation that is approachable to most users, ensuring a comfortable typing experience over extended periods.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the TTC Silent Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Speed Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, ideal for gamers seeking rapid response and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch delivers a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel, making it a preferred choice for those looking for a quiet and seamless typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and the desired typing environment, both switches can provide satisfactory results, ensuring a customized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider your main priorities. If you are a competitive gamer looking for lightning-fast responsiveness and minimal delay, the MX Speed Silver is the way to go. Its linear action and low spring resistance make it perfect for quick, precise movements in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Red is your best bet. With its muted sound profile and comfortable bottom-out feel, it provides a seamless and peaceful typing experience. Ultimately, your preference for speed and responsiveness versus quiet operation will determine which switch is best suited for your needs.
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