TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both fall within the linear switch category, offering a smooth keystroke experience. The Silent Frozen stands out for its quiet sound profile and a soft, cushioned feel, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is highlighted for its innovative design that reimagines traditional travel distances and factory lubing techniques, resulting in a switch with a deeper sound profile that leans towards the medium-weight category. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Silver white spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Type A differ significantly in terms of sound profile. The Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, the sound produced is clear and resonant. In contrast, the Gateron Type A uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Type A also differ. The polycarbonate used in the Silent Frozen (V2) allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Gateron Type A is a classic choice that does not offer the same level of transparency. This results in a different visual appeal for each switch, with the Silent Frozen (V2) likely to have a more modern and vibrant look while the Gateron Type A may have a more traditional appearance.
While the housing materials of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Type A vary in terms of stiffness and sound profile, they both provide unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing impacts different aspects of the sound and feel of the switch when typing. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer quality construction and innovative design that cater to different preferences and needs in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Silent Frozen (V2) makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, which may be preferred for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Gateron Type A provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The bottom out force of both switches reflects the amount of force needed to press the keys all the way down, with the Silent Frozen (V2) being lighter in comparison to the Gateron Type A. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Type A linear switch. The shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen (V2) may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type A may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Silent Frozen (V2) providing a quicker keypress and the Type A offering a slightly deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 $5.33.
The Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, producing a deep and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is described as having a more neutral and subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum but still offering a subtle and dampened sound when pressed. Overall, both switches provide quiet typing experiences, with the Silent Frozen (V2) offering a deeper and more muffled sound compared to the Type A.
In terms of feel, the Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is praised for its creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation with reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not provided. Considering the descriptions of the Silent Frozen (V2) switch, it can be assumed that the Type A linear switch may provide a similar smooth and refined typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing session.
In conclusion, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have their unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a quiet and smooth typing experience. If you are looking for a linear switch with a deep and muffled sound profile, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral and subdued sound, the Gateron Type A switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 43 grams, a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, as well as a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing feel, then the Silent Frozen (V2) might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, a neutral and subdued sound profile, and are open to exploring the typing feel features of the Type A switch, you may find it to be a suitable compromise. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, typing feel, and switch characteristics.
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