Kailh Plum vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum and the TTC Speed Silver. The Plum stands out for its unique combination of heftiness and limited tactility, making it a fascinating choice compared to other tactile switches. Despite its weight, the Plum maintains a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is the go-to option for those who prioritize speed and precision while typing. These linear switches offer a light-medium resistance and a pristine sound profile, allowing for effortless actuation thanks to their reduced travel distance. Both switches fall under the 'Neutral' and 'Mild' categories of resistance, displaying their similarities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
The Kailh Plum and the TTC Speed Silver have similar housing materials, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Kailh Plum and the TTC Speed Silver will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the two switches. The Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Speed Silver also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Plum and the Speed Silver will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced due to their nylon bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the Plum and the Speed Silver may share similar top and bottom housing materials, their overall typing experience and sound profiles could differ slightly due to the unique design and construction of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown, while the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Speed Silver requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Plum switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Plum switch has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the Speed Silver has a slightly lighter force of 55 grams. This means that the Plum switch provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully press each key, while the Speed Silver offers a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience. The weight of the switches is worth considering based on personal preferences and usage scenarios. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Speed Silver more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel might opt for the Plum switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide different typing experiences to cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have different travel distances. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within the range, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, the preference for shorter travel distances has gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Speed Silver with its slightly shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, and in such cases, the Plum with its longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
The sound profile of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as neutral and enjoyable. This means that the switch produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. Similarly, the sound profile of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is also described as neutral. Therefore, both switches offer a moderate sound profile that can be enjoyable for most users. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so individual results may vary.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a mild typing experience. This means that the switch offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced tactile characteristics. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone where the sound and feel will be approachable to most users. Additionally, the Plum switch is described as a stepped switch, which means it has two stages of feeling. It has a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch also offers a mild typing experience. It provides a gentle feel that is comfortable for most users. Additionally, it is described as a polished switch, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is due to either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer similar sound profiles, with a neutral and enjoyable sound. They both provide a mild typing experience, with the Plum switch offering a unique stepped feel and the Speed Silver offering a polished and smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for weight, tactility, and travel distance, newcomers can choose between these switches for different typing experiences. Remember, the overall experience can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump, then the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a solid feel while typing. The Plum switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the ideal option. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver switches also have a pristine sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a mild typing experience. The Plum switches have a stepped feel, meaning they have a more subtle tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Conversely, the Speed Silver switches have a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch depends on your preferences. If you prioritize weightiness and a unique tactile feel, go for the Plum. If you value speed and precision, opt for the Speed Silver. Consider the sound profile and typing experience that aligns with your preferences and needs.
Bringing it all together, whether you choose the Kailh Plum or the TTC Speed Silver, both switches offer their own unique advantages. It's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in a tactile switch and select accordingly.
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