TTC Silent Red vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Silent Red, a linear switch, to the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Silent Red is ideal for those seeking a quiet typing experience, perfect for office or shared living spaces thanks to its muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Violet switch offers a gentle tactile feedback with smooth actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the Silent Red is lauded for its smooth and seamless feel, the Violet stands out for its poppy tactility. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Jerrzi Violet are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, giving a more aesthetically pleasing look. On the other hand, both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same housing materials for the top and bottom, the experience of typing on them may vary slightly. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience for each switch, despite using the same materials.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the TTC Silent Red and the Jerrzi Violet result in comparable sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches benefit from the sharpness and crispness of polycarbonate in the top housing, as well as the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the bottom housing. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile from the stiffness of polycarbonate or a fuller sound from the softness of nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the Silent Red has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet switch is unknown. The Silent Red is considered medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a switch, as lighter switches are preferred by some for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, those looking for a slightly lighter switch may lean towards the Jerrzi Violet, whereas those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When comparing the two, both switches provide a similar tactile experience and actuation point. Users can expect a consistent feel and responsiveness when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. In essence, pressing down on keys with the Silent Red or Violet switches will result in a similar travel distance and overall 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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 linear switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for environments where noise may be a concern, such as offices or shared living spaces. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings and preferences. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Silent Red being quieter and the Violet being more versatile.
In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation with reduced friction and a comfortable bottom-out feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offers a stepped tactile experience, with a gentle tactility that may appeal to those looking for a more subdued typing experience. While the Silent Red switch focuses on a seamless and effortless feel, the Violet switch provides a more nuanced tactile response with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations.
Overall, both the TTC Silent Red and Jerrzi Violet switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Silent Red excels in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience, perfect for those who value a smooth keystroke and minimal noise. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a versatile sound profile and a gentle tactile response. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet and comfortable typing experience suitable for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the way to go. With a smooth and consistent feel, as well as a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch with a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, the Jerrzi Violet switch is a great choice. With a smooth actuation and poppy tactility, these switches offer a pleasing typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your preference for noise level and tactile feedback.