SP-Star RedBlue vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Red are both excellent options to consider. The RedBlue linear switches offer a medium-light typing experience, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. Additionally, their relatively higher-pitched sound profile adds a unique touch to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Reds are the go-to choice for individuals in need of a quiet and seamless typing experience. With a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office or shared living spaces. Moreover, the Silent Reds provide a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, complemented by a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Silent Red both feature polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when using either the RedBlue or the Silent Red.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate material for their top housing, they differ in terms of their bottom housing. The RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, reinforcing the consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Silent Red incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. This material choice gives the Silent Red a different typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the Silent Red offers a distinct sound and feel due to its nylon bottom housing, distinguishing it from the RedBlue.
The division between top and bottom housings in switches can impact the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the RedBlue, the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to maintaining the sharp and crisp sound profile throughout the switch. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. As both the RedBlue and the Silent Red have polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a consistent impact on the sound when letting go of a key. However, the differing bottom housing materials in the Silent Red, specifically nylon, introduce a unique impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, setting it apart from the RedBlue.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The SP-Star RedBlue's actuation force is unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare to the 45 grams required for the TTC Silent Red switch. However, in terms of bottom out force, the SP-Star RedBlue requires 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time may opt for the SP-Star RedBlue switch. This would be particularly suitable for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who value a more substantial and stronger push feel while typing may find the heavier bottom out force of the TTC Silent Red switch to be more appealing.
Although the actuation force of the SP-Star RedBlue switch is unknown, individuals seeking similar results in terms of typing experience can use the provided information on bottom out force to make an informed decision. It should be noted that both switches fall within the linear switch category, meaning they offer a smooth typing experience without a tactile bump. Overall, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the TTC Silent Red switch is heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the SP-Star RedBlue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue is more in line with the traditional travel distance, offering a deeper and more satisfying key press. On the other hand, the 3.7 mm travel distance of the TTC Silent Red is slightly shallower, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity in recent years due to their faster responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the TTC Silent Red would be a suitable option, whereas if you enjoy a more substantial key press, the longer travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue would be a better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. This means that when the keys are pressed and released, you can expect a sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is known for its muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making it ideal for environments such as offices or shared living spaces. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide a different auditory experience, with the RedBlue offering a low-pitched and somewhat thocky sound, while the Silent Red provides a more muted and acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, both the RedBlue and Silent Red switches offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience. The RedBlue switch is described as having a mild and polished feel. This means that it provides a gentle typing experience and features reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek and refined typing sensation. Similarly, the Silent Red switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch has a consistent feel from top to bottom, and there's even a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Silent Red switch emphasizing a buttery and smooth feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch provide different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile with a low-pitched and thocky characteristic. It provides a mild and polished feel, appealing to those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch emphasizes a muted sound profile, making it perfect for quiet and shared spaces. It offers a buttery and mild typing experience with a consistent feel throughout. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy the characteristics of one switch, you can expect similar results with the other, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are the perfect choice for you. These switches offer a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound, providing a satisfying typing sound. They also offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the TTC Silent Red linear switches are the way to go. These switches have a muted sound profile, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. They offer a buttery and mild feel, ensuring a smooth and gentle keystroke experience. They also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Red switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, go for the RedBlue switches. However, if you value a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Silent Red switches are the perfect fit. Assess your desired sound and feel, and make an informed decision based on your preferences.
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