Akko Rosewood vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Rosewood and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Rosewood and TTC Speed Silver present two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking distinct typing experiences. The Akko Rosewood, known for its deep, satisfying thocky sound, is an excellent choice for users who appreciate a tactile acoustic feedback as they type. This switch is enhanced with a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which not only smooths out the keystrokes but also caters to those who enjoy a richer auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver stands out for its remarkable speed and precision, making it the go-to switch for gamers or typists who prioritize quick responsiveness. With a light to medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver switch promotes effortless actuation that can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios. While both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, it's important to delve deeper into their specifications and characteristics to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Rosewood and TTC Speed Silver switches utilize two distinct housing materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This characteristic arises from nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a more rounded audio experience. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clearer and more resonant audio signature, making each keystroke feel snappier. In essence, while both switches offer compelling auditory experiences, they diverge sharply in tonal quality due to their differing top housing materials.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find a similarity in material choice. Both the Akko Rosewood and TTC Speed Silver feature nylon as their bottom housing material. As a result, both switches evoke a similar sound profile during key presses, characterized by a deeper and softer sound that is intrinsic to nylon. This consistency in the material allows users to enjoy the fuller sonic experience associated with nylon regardless of the distinctions in their top housing. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switches when pressed down will largely be similar, providing a sense of familiarity for users transitioning between the two.
Overall, the combination of different top and bottom housing materials in the Akko Rosewood and TTC Speed Silver results in unique auditory characteristics. While both switches share the same nylon substance in their bottoms, the variations in their top housings lead to disparate sound qualities and user experiences. Users can expect a rounded and deeper sound from the Rosewood due to its nylon top, while the Speed Silver will deliver a brighter and more resonant experience owing to its polycarbonate top. The hybridization of materials ultimately allows for diverse sound outputs, catering to different preferences in keyboard acoustics, yet the shared nylon bottom ensures a consistent tactile feel across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Rosewood switch boasts an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Consequently, users who favor a lighter touch for extended periods, such as during work or lengthy gaming sessions, may find the Rosewood switch more comfortable. Meanwhile, those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Speed Silver switch, which provides a firmer feel without being excessively heavy. Overall, although both switches fall into the lightweight spectrum, the Akko Rosewood offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, promoting ease of use for prolonged typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Rosewood switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it align with the traditional feel favored by many typists and gamers who prefer a more substantial key press. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This reduction caters to the contemporary preference among gamers for quicker response times, allowing for faster actuation. While the Rosewood's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Speed Silver's shorter distance may appeal to those who find a more abrupt keypress to be beneficial. Ultimately, those seeking responsiveness will likely prefer the Speed Silver, while individuals who appreciate a deeper keystroke will gravitate towards the Rosewood.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 considering the sound profile of the Akko Rosewood linear switch, it is celebrated for its deep, satisfying thock that resonates with a pleasant acoustic experience. This sound is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which contributes to the overall richness and fullness of each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate actuation sound that is versatile enough for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. While the Speed Silver may not evoke the same depth as the Rosewood, its sound remains crisp and clear, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office.
In terms of feel, the Rosewood switch offers an overall engaging typing experience that combines smooth actuation with a tactile response, evoking a sense of satisfaction with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches present a mild feel, providing a gentle yet responsive typing journey. With qualities that lie on the more accessible end of the spectrum, these polished switches deliver smooth key travel and reduced friction, making the actuation feel seamless. The Speed Silver switches are designed for speed and efficiency, appealing to those who prioritize a quick and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko Rosewood and TTC Speed Silver switches have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. The Rosewood excels in delivering a rich, thocky sound and a rewarding tactile experience, while the Speed Silver offers a neutral acoustic presence and smooth actuation suited for rapid typing. Depending on what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard, you may find that both switches provide enjoyable and satisfying results, albeit through different experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, your preferences and intended use will be key factors in your decision. If you enjoy a light actuation force with a satisfying thocky sound that provides a tactile satisfaction right out of the box, the Rosewood switch may be the ideal choice for you. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate a deeper auditory feedback while typing or gaming at home. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing experience—perhaps due to fast-paced gaming or extensive typing tasks—the TTC Speed Silver switch would be more fitting. With a slightly higher actuation force and reduced travel distance, it offers a polished and mild feel that caters well to both beginners and experienced users alike. Ultimately, consider how you plan to use your keyboard and what sort of auditory and tactile feedback resonates with you most, and you will find the right switch for your needs.
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