TTC Silent Red vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two options stand out for their unique features and functionalities: the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Type A, both of which are linear switches. The Silent Red is renowned for its smooth and noiseless typing experience, making it perfect for quiet environments like offices or shared living spaces. On the other hand, the Type A from Gateron offers a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound profile, appealing to those looking for a slightly more tactile feel. While the Silent Red is praised for its 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Polished' characteristics, the Type A is known for its 'Neutral' and 'Subdued' qualities. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may be best suited to your preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to ensure you make the most informed choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Type A switches, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, as the nylon material plays a significant role in enhancing the overall sound of the switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Silent Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. In contrast, nylon tends to elicit a deeper and fuller sound, offering a different auditory experience while typing. Therefore, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and overall typing feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the typing experience, it is essential to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, given its softer composition and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, when choosing between the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Type A, one must consider how the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings will affect the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The TTC Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams, making it more sensitive to keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Red has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Type A has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Silent Red provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel, while the Type A offers a softer touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions. Both switches provide similar results in terms of typing performance, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier feel while typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Silent Red offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a potential choice for those looking for a quicker response time, which is often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 Red switch offers a muted profile, perfect for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch provides a more subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum. Both switches aim to provide a quieter typing experience compared to standard mechanical switches, with the Type A offering a slightly more noticeable sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific environment in which the keyboard will be used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red switch is praised for its buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and uniform sensation with a padded bottom-out feel for added comfort. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch does not have specific descriptions available, but based on its sound profile being described as subdued, it may offer a similar smooth and gentle typing experience. Both switches are likely to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with differences possibly lying in subtle nuances that may be preferred by individual users.
In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red and Gateron Type A linear switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Silent Red switch excels in providing a muted sound profile and a smooth, buttery typing experience, making it ideal for quiet environments and users looking for a comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the Type A switch offers a slightly deeper sound and a potentially similar smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both are designed to offer a pleasant typing experience with minimal noise.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the specific qualities of each switch. If you prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silent Red would be the ideal choice, especially for office or shared living spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, the Type A would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns with your priorities for an optimal typing experience.
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