Everglide Sakura Pink vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TTC Silent Red. The Sakura Pink switches are perfect for those who prefer a super light typing experience, with an actuation force of just 35g, making them ideal for delicate typists. With a gliding type feel and frictionless operation, these switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Sakura Pinks produce a delightfully poppy sound, reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. On the other hand, if you value a seamless typing experience without the noise, the Silent Reds are the way to go. With a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office or shared living spaces. They provide a smooth and consistent feel throughout the keystroke and offer a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TTC Silent Red switches differ in their top and bottom housing components. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. This material choice is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows for better diffusion of light.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Sakura Pink features a polycarbonate construction, similar to its top housing. As a result, it also contributes to the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Silent Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the impact of the different housing materials, the bottom housing has a more noticeable effect on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will allow users to experience the qualities brought by the material used in the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing exerts a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material in each part of the switch affects distinct aspects of the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Everglide Sakura Pink and TTC Silent Red switches share similar qualities in their top housing, both featuring polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Sakura Pink utilizing polycarbonate and the Silent Red employing nylon. These variations result in different sound profiles, with the Sakura Pink delivering a sharper sound while the Silent Red produces a deeper tone. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance allows users to select a switch that aligns with their desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Sakura Pink switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the Silent Red switch requires a slightly heavier force of 45 grams to activate. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Sakura Pink switch requires 45 grams of force, while the Silent Red switch demands a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it more substantial.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the Sakura Pink switch due to its lighter actuation force, enabling them to type comfortably over extended periods. This lightness is particularly beneficial for those who use the keyboard for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, users seeking a more robust and substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silent Red switch. Its heavier actuation force provides a stronger push feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired level of force one seeks for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and TTC Silent Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Sakura Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the Sakura Pink switch will travel a little bit further than the Silent Red switch. The difference may not be significant to some, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so they might lean towards the Silent Red switch. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying press, the Sakura Pink switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be the better choice. It ultimately depends on personal preference and what feels more comfortable while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, both the Everglide Sakura Pink and TTC Silent Red switches are described as muted. This means that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making them suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared living spaces. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience. The Sakura Pink switches are described as buttery, creamy, easy-to-press, and frictionless. This implies that they provide a fluid and effortless keystroke sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Similarly, the Silent Red switches are also described as buttery, mild, and polished. They offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant and comfortable typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Everglide Sakura Pink and TTC Silent Red switches share similar subjective qualities. They both offer a smooth and seamless typing experience, with a muted sound profile that minimizes noise. While the Sakura Pink switches are specifically celebrated for their feather-light actuation force and poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, the Silent Red switches prioritize a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. If you are seeking a switch that delivers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, either of these switches would be a suitable choice. By considering factors like preference, typing style, and the desired overall typing experience, you can select the switch that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're a delicate typist and prefer a super light switch with a smooth, frictionless feel and a poppy sound, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches provide an easy-to-press and buttery typing experience. They are ideal for those who enjoy a light and effortless typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience and are looking for a switch that is suitable for office or shared living space use, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is your best bet. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a muted sound profile and a smooth, consistent feel throughout. The padded bottom-out feel adds to the overall comfort of the typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Sakura Pink and the TTC Silent Red depends on your preferences and requirements. If you value a lightweight switch with a playful sound, go for the Sakura Pink. If a quiet and smooth typing experience is what you seek, the Silent Red is the way to go. Both switches offer a delightful and enjoyable typing experience, so choose the one that aligns with your needs.
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