TTC Silent Red vs. Gateron Type S

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches for your setup, you may come across the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Type S, both linear switches offering unique features. The Silent Red is praised for its smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for office or shared spaces due to its muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out with its 65g bottom-out weight and contemporary factory lubing techniques, providing a satisfying and balanced sound experience. Each switch has its own characteristics, with the Silent Red being categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Polished', and the Type S as 'Neutral', 'Subdued'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Silent Red Linear

Gateron Type S Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Type S, we can see that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Silent Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type S's nylon top housing. The clear translucency of polycarbonate in the Silent Red also makes it more ideal for use with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic.

While both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing, the difference lies in their top housing material. The Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. This contrasts with the Type S's nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a rounder tone. The choice of top housing material significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the Silent Red providing a sharper sound upon key release compared to the Type S.

Overall, the combination of materials used in the housing of both switches creates distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The softer nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the top housing material sets them apart in terms of sharpness and clarity. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of the TTC Silent Red with its polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the Gateron Type S with its nylon top housing, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Type S is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Silent Red at 63.5 grams and the Type S at 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Silent Red would be the better choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Type S would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force for their keyboard.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Type S at 4 mm. While both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Silent Red offers a slightly shallower press, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Type S provides a slightly deeper press, which may feel more substantial to some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. While both switches offer similar results due to their comparable travel distances, the subtle difference may be enough to sway users towards one over the other based on personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Silent Red switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it ideal for those looking for a more discreet typing experience, particularly in shared environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch provides a neutral sound profile with a subdued quality, offering a balance between noise reduction and a satisfying acoustic experience. When it comes to feel, the Silent Red switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation with a polished finish. Meanwhile, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is currently unavailable. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. However, if you prefer a more muted sound and a buttery feel, the Silent Red switch may be the right choice for you, while the Gateron Type S switch could be a great option if you seek a balance between weightier keystrokes and a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're in need of a switch that offers a smooth and quiet typing experience suitable for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Red linear switch with its medium-heavy 63.5g bottom out force would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper sound signature, the Gateron Type S linear switch with its 65g bottom-out force would be a great option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for sound and feel, as both switches cater to different typing experiences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type S Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more