Outemu Red vs. TTC Speed Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Red and the TTC Speed Silver. The Outemu Red is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is also a linear switch but is best known for providing a fast and precise typing experience with a reduced travel distance. The Outemu Red is categorized as a neutral switch, while the TTC Speed Silver falls under mild and polished types. If you prioritize a consistent and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Red might be the ideal choice for you. However, if speed and precision are more important, the TTC Speed Silver could be the better option. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Linear

TTC Speed Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

$6.00

$4.58 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Red and the TTC Speed Silver, both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the differences lie in their respective nylon bottom housing. The Red's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing elicits a similar effect, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile.

In terms of sound production and typing experience, the split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a significant role. When typing on the Red switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. The same principle applies to the Speed Silver, where the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release. Therefore, despite their similarities in polycarbonate top housing, the differences in nylon bottom housing materials will result in slightly varying sound profiles and typing sensations.

Overall, the choice between the Outemu Red and the TTC Speed Silver will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel. Both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing to create a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting. However, the variation in nylon bottom housing materials between the two switches will impact the overall sound experience. The Red's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound, while the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing will offer a similar effect. Ultimately, users looking for a switch with a specific sound profile or typing experience may prefer one over the other based on their personal preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Red switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Red switch is also higher at 62 grams, while the Speed Silver requires only 55 grams to bottom out. This makes the Speed Silver the lighter of the two switches, providing a smoother and easier typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Despite the slight differences in force requirements, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, providing similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 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 Red switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. Those who favor faster response times may prefer the Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red switch is known for being on the quieter side, as it does not have any specific sound profile associated with it. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's case and keycaps.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Red switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, being labeled as "polished," these switches provide a smooth and refined typing sensation due to reduced friction and enhanced key travel. This polished characteristic adds a level of sophistication to the typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Red linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch may have different sound profiles and feel descriptors, they both offer quality linear switch options. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Red may be more suitable, whereas if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a moderate sound level and polished feel, the Speed Silver could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, and you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and durability.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a focus on speed and precision in your typing experience, you may want to choose the TTC Speed Silver switch. These switches are best suited for those who value quick and effortless actuation, making them ideal for fast typists or gamers. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a more neutral typing experience, the Outemu Red linear switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences, so consider your priorities when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

TTC Speed Silver Linear

$6.00

$4.58 per 10

Learn more