TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) 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 TTC Silent Frozen and the TTC Speed Silver. The Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more muted typing experience. In addition, it provides a super smooth and pillowy feel, creating a comfortable typing sensation. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is perfect for individuals who prioritize speed and precision. With a reduced travel distance, these switches enable quick and effortless actuation, resulting in a faster and more responsive typing experience. They also offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Silver white spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Frozen and TTC Speed Silver keyboards, specifically their top housings, are both made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a relatively stiff plastic that results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency is especially advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, the top housings of both keyboards will provide similar outcomes in terms of sound and aesthetic benefits.
However, the bottom housings of these two keyboards differ. The Silent Frozen features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing will produce a sharper and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the material. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the choice between these two options depends on the sound profile the user prefers.
When it comes to the overall experience of pressing down and releasing keys, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the polycarbonate or nylon bottom housings will be more noticeable when keys are pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. As both keyboards have polycarbonate top housings, the sound when keys are released will be similar for both the Silent Frozen and Speed Silver. However, it's important to note the potential differences in sound and feel when pressing down keys due to the contrasting bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Silent Frozen is 39 grams, while the Speed Silver requires 45 grams. This indicates that the Silent Frozen is slightly lighter in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Silent Frozen is 43 grams, whereas the Speed Silver requires 55 grams, making the Silent Frozen lighter in this aspect as well.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Silent Frozen as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This lighter actuation and bottom out force make it ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a stronger tactile feeling and enjoy a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Speed Silver. The slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Speed Silver provide a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke response for these individuals.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of the Silent Frozen and Speed Silver differ, those seeking a similar experience can still find satisfaction with either switch. The differences in force are not drastic, so individuals who prioritize weight in their switch selection might find both options suitable for their needs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience when choosing between the TTC Silent Frozen and the TTC Speed Silver linear switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Silent Frozen has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, the Silent Frozen is slightly longer by 0.1 mm. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Speed Silver would be the better option, with its slightly shallower travel distance. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press and a greater sense of depth, the Silent Frozen's longer travel distance may be more to your liking. It is important to consider personal preference and typing style when selecting between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.55.
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
The TTC Silent Frozen and TTC Speed Silver switches have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Silent Frozen switches are best known for their extremely quiet sound profile, described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted. This means that the switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The muted sound minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes.
In terms of feel, the Silent Frozen switches are characterized as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. They offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. The feather-light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are described as mild and polished. The mild feel offers a gentle typing experience, approaching a safe middle ground that is approachable to most users. The polished finish also provides a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, the TTC Silent Frozen switches are best known for being extremely quiet, smooth, and offering a pillowy feel. They provide a deep and satisfying thocky sound when pressed and a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches offer a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound and a gentle typing feel. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. So, while they have different qualities, users can expect similar results in terms of a smooth and refined typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, smooth keystrokes, and reduced finger fatigue, you should choose the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches are light and offer a pillowy type feel. Their extremely quiet sound profile, characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound, makes them perfect for shared spaces or if you simply prefer a quieter typing experience. The Silent Frozen switches also provide a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, or polished feel, giving you a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a light-medium level of resistance. They have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or an advanced typist. The Speed Silvers also provide a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and sleek typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Silent Frozen and Speed Silver switches depends on whether you prioritize quietness and smoothness or speed and precision in your typing.
Mentioned in this article
