Outemu Silver vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silver and the TTC Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, you have a variety of factors to consider. The Silver switch is best known for its unique qualities, while the Silent Red stands out for its smooth and quiet typing experience. The Silver switch offers an undefined characteristic, whereas the Silent Red is praised for its buttery, mild, muted, and polished attributes. While the Silent Red switch is ideal for those seeking a noise-free typing experience suitable for office or shared living spaces, the Silver switch may appeal to users looking for a different feel. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the TTC Silent Red, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency. This means that users of both switches can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housing.
Where the switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Due to nylon's softer nature, it absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Silent Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering users the same deep and full sound profile when typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing. While the Outemu Silver and TTC Silent Red share a polycarbonate top housing for similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal, their nylon bottom housings differ slightly in the depth and fullness of sound produced. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to the combination of different housing materials, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Silver has a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Silent Red has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Red slightly lighter overall than the Silver. When it comes to weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Red switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silver switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired level of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Outemu Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Silent Red. The 0.3 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Red being on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Red for faster response times, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Silver for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Silver comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Silver linear switch is known for its lack of distinctive qualities, making it a neutral option in terms of noise level. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is best known for its muted sound profile. A muted switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks a specific description for its typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is praised for its buttery feel. A buttery switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Silent Red switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most users due to its refined finish and reduced friction.
Overall, the Outemu Silver linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch provides a neutral sound experience and lacks a specific feel description, the Silent Red switch stands out for its muted sound profile and buttery, mild, and polished typing feel. Depending on your preferences for noise level and typing sensation, both switches can offer a satisfactory experience. If you enjoy a quieter typing environment with a smooth and comfortable feel, the TTC Silent Red linear switch may be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between Outemu Silver linear switches and TTC Silent Red linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially in a shared environment like an office or living space, the TTC Silent Red switches would be your best bet. With a muted sound profile and a padded bottom-out feel, these switches provide maximum comfort and minimal noise. However, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and do not require a specific noise level, the Outemu Silver switches may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and your individual typing needs.
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