TTC Silent Frozen (V2) vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming experience, both the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and Gateron Weightlessness offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Silent Frozen (V2) is revered for its incredibly quiet sound profile, combined with a super smooth and pillowy feel, making it an excellent choice for users who value a muted typing experience without sacrificing comfort. Its thocky, low-pitched sound and creamy, buttery texture create a serene atmosphere, ideal for those who work in shared environments or late at night. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness provides a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, ensuring that typists can feel an indication of actuation while still enjoying a balanced sound that doesn't distract from the experience. The Weightlessness switch is perfect for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the harshness often associated with clicky switches. While both switches have their merits, they cater to distinct preferences—opting for silence and smoothness with the Silent Frozen (V2) or enjoying a tactile sensation with the Gateron Weightlessness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) and the Gateron Weightlessness switches, crucial differences emerge that impact both sound profile and overall typing experience. The Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, allowing for clearer acoustics and brighter resonance. This characteristic makes it a favored choice for RGB enthusiasts, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a nylon top housing, which provides a softer typing sound that is deep and full. The inherent soft properties of nylon absorb more sound, leading to a duller sound profile that contrasts sharply with the brighter tones associated with polycarbonate.
The differences continue with the bottom housings of these switches. The Silent Frozen (V2) employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, reinforcing the higher-pitched and crisper sound profile achieved by its top housing. This configuration results in a more distinct bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness uses a nylon bottom housing, contributing to the rounded and muted sound profile that characterizes its overall sound signature. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, which provides a more subdued auditory feedback upon actuation. Thus, the combination of a polycarbonate top with a polycarbonate bottom in the Silent Frozen (V2) leads to a consistent sound experience dominated by brightness, while the mixture of nylon in both housings of the Weightlessness focuses on warmth and depth.
In essence, both switches offer unique sound experiences that can appeal to different user preferences. While the Silent Frozen (V2) delivers a clearer, more resonant sound primarily due to its polycarbonate composition, the Gateron Weightlessness focuses on the softer and rounder qualities brought by nylon. If you favor the sound profile associated with one switch, you can anticipate a distinct auditory difference; however, if you're looking for similar acoustic results, you might consider modding or customizing either switch by mixing components, such as using a nylon bottom with a polycarbonate top or vice versa, to experiment with blending their respective characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal sound preferences and the desired tactile feedback during use.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the differences in actuation force highlight significant user experience preferences. The Silent Frozen (V2) features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a comfortable typing experience, especially during long sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. However, its bottom out force remains unspecified, making it difficult to evaluate how the two switches compare in that regard. Given their actuation forces, users who prioritize a lighter switch will find the Silent Frozen (V2) preferable, while those desiring a stronger push will lean towards the Gateron Weightlessness. Overall, the Silent Frozen (V2) is the lighter option, whereas the Weightlessness is the heavier choice, aligning with their respective target audiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the Silent Frozen (V2) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Weightlessness comes in slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who favor a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to those who prefer quicker actuation and a more responsive experience, which is often favored by gamers. Ultimately, both switches offer different benefits depending on individual preferences: the Silent Frozen (V2) for those who enjoy a heartier depth and the Gateron Weightlessness for users seeking faster response times.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) excels with its thocky, low-pitched, and muted profile, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise reduction is essential. The deep, rich tones create a satisfying auditory experience akin to a soft thud or knock, minimizing the clatter typical of many mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switches do not have specific sound characteristics detailed, but their balanced sound profile would generally suggest a more subdued sound. Although both switches are tailored for different preferences, the Silent Frozen's design significantly reduces sound, offering a quieter typing experience suitable for shared workspaces.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is characterized as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. This combination results in an exceptionally smooth and comfortable typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance and reduced fatigue. The overall tactile sensation promotes a seamless interaction, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the feel attributes for the Gateron Weightlessness switches are not explicitly mentioned, but their moderate tactile feedback suggests they might provide a different typing experience, one that viewers may have to personally evaluate for a complete understanding.
In conclusion, if you're leaning towards a quiet and smooth typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offers a compelling package with its muted sound and luxurious feel. While the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch may cater to those who appreciate a balanced tactile feedback, its specific sound and tactile qualities remain less defined. Both switches would provide different results in terms of user experience, making personal preference and typing habits vital to the selection process.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and usage environment. If you seek a switch that combines a super smooth typing experience with an incredibly quiet operation, the Silent Frozen (V2) is an excellent choice. Its light actuation force of 43 grams makes it perfect for long typing sessions, whether you're working, gaming, or studying in a shared space where noise might be a concern. Its thocky, low-pitched, and muted characteristics add a satisfying depth to your keystrokes without being disruptive. On the other hand, if you appreciate the gentle feedback that comes from a tactile switch and prefer a more balanced sound profile, the Gateron Weightlessness might be the better option for you. While its specific bottom-out force is unspecified, the subtle to moderate tactile feel can enhance your typing experience, allowing you to enjoy a tactile response without it being overly pronounced. This makes it suitable for both everyday use and more focused typing tasks where you want that tactile assurance without the noise. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize silence and smoothness or tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard.
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