Durock Piano vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Piano and the TTC Speed Silver stand out as popular linear options. The Durock Piano is hailed for its proprietary material blend, making it one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users experience a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature with this switch. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is the go-to choice for those seeking a fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. Additionally, they have a reduced travel distance, enabling quick and effortless actuation. While these general pointers give a glimpse into each switch's strengths, let's delve deeper to determine which one suits your preferences and needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the TTC Speed Silver switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The Piano's POM blend top housing provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The POM blend of the Piano switch allows for a more resonant and rich sound, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper tone. Conversely, the polycarbonate material in the Speed Silver switch offers a clearer and more pronounced sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a brighter and more precise typing experience. Although different, these housing materials provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the switches, the contrast continues. The Piano switch utilizes its proprietary POM blend for the bottom housing, which gives it a satisfying and deep sound profile. The POM blend absorbs less sound compared to the relatively softer nylon material used in the Speed Silver switch. Thanks to its absorption properties, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This duller and rounder sound may appeal to individuals who seek a quieter and more muted typing experience. Conversely, the POM blend in the Piano switch offers a more pronounced and resonant sound.
When comparing the overall sound profiles of the switches, the contrasting characteristics of their respective housing materials become more distinct. The Durock Piano switch, with its POM blend top and bottom housings, provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound during keypresses, but a deeper and fuller sound upon release. Although different, both switches deliver high-quality sound performances that are tailored to individual preferences. Whether you desire a deeper or brighter typing experience, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound satisfaction by selecting the switch that best suits your personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Piano switch has an actuation force that is not specified, making it difficult to directly compare with the Speed Silver's known actuation force of 45 grams. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall under the medium weight category.
In terms of the bottom out force, the Durock Piano switch requires 63.5 grams to fully bottom out, indicating a medium-heavy resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the TTC Speed Silver switch. The lighter actuation force of 45 grams and the bottom out force of 55 grams can provide a comfortable typing experience during extended periods, making it suitable for activities like work or extended gaming sessions.
However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Durock Piano switch might be a preferable choice. Although the exact actuation force for the Piano switch is unknown, its heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams suggests that it provides a more robust and satisfying keystroke response.
In summary, while the actuation forces of the Durock Piano and TTC Speed Silver switches differ in availability, the Durock Piano offers a heavier bottom out force, while the TTC Speed Silver provides a lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two will rely on individual preferences and the specific typing experience one seeks to achieve.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Piano has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm compared to the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm. 4.0 mm is closer to the traditional travel distance, while the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm falls on the shallower end. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Speed Silver's shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper feel might find the Piano's longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 Durock Piano switches are best known for their deep and creamy sound profile. These switches offer a bassy sound, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches have a neutral sound profile. They offer a moderate sound, suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the Piano switches would be a great choice, while the Speed Silver switches provide a more neutral sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano switches offer a frictionless and silky typing experience. These switches are extremely smooth and effortless to type on, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The smooth travel of these switches enhances the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, the Piano switches would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a safe middle-ground zone with a polished feel, the Speed Silver switches would be suitable.
In conclusion, the Durock Piano and TTC Speed Silver switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Piano switches provide a deep and creamy sound profile along with a frictionless and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the switches that align with your desired sound and feel. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps in order to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a deep, creamy sound profile, the Durock Piano linear switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches are best known for their proprietary material blend, offering a gliding push feel and eliminating any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, they provide a medium-heavy typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a fast and precise typing experience with a pristine sound profile, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the better option. These switches have a reduced travel distance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, they offer a lighter typing experience compared to the Piano switch.
In terms of sound, the Piano switch provides a bassy sound profile, characterized by deeper and richer tones. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes.
In terms of feel, the Piano switch is described as frictionless and silky, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished feel, with a more gentle and approachable typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider your priorities and select the switch that aligns with your preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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