TTC Silent Red vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the TTC Silent Red and Gateron Weightlessness provide distinct advantages for varying typing preferences. The TTC Silent Red, with its buttery, muted sound profile, is an ideal option for those seeking a quiet yet smooth typing experience, making it especially suitable for office environments or shared living spaces. Its silky consistency from top to bottom, combined with a cushioned bottom-out feel, offers a comfortable typing experience that minimizes distractions. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch stands out with its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, delivering a satisfying typing sensation that many users find engaging. The balanced sound profile of the Weightlessness adds nuance to each keystroke, appealing to those who appreciate tactile cues without overwhelming noise. Both switches cater to specific needs—be it a tranquil typing environment or a more interactive feel—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
50g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Weightlessness, we find distinct differences in the materials used for the top housing. The TTC Silent Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and clarity. This housing type produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups, as it allows for light to pass through effectively, enhancing the visual experience. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that many users find appealing for its more muted acoustics.
For both switches, the bottom housing is identical in material, as both the Silent Red and Weightlessness feature nylon for this component. The use of nylon contributes to a similar auditory experience in terms of the deeper, rounder sound profile when the key is bottomed out. The softness of the nylon allows it to absorb sound, creating a more cushioned typing experience. While the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing bring a cohesive feeling to both switches, it’s the combination of different materials in the top housing that leads to contrasting performance in sound profile and overall typing feel when the keys are released.
In summary, the contrasting materials in the top housings of the TTC Silent Red and Gateron Weightlessness yield markedly different sound qualities, while their identical nylon bottom housings provide a shared sound experience when bottoming out. Users looking for a sharper, more resonant sound may gravitate toward the TTC Silent Red due to its polycarbonate top, while those preferring a more subdued and fuller sound may favor the Gateron Weightlessness with its nylon top. Regardless, both switches offer a pleasing tactile experience, with the sound profile nuances stemming from their respective top housing materials ultimately creating unique typing sensations.
Weight
The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch present distinct differences in their actuation force, but they diverge with the availability of data on the bottom out force. The Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it somewhat lighter than the Gateron Weightlessness, which requires a stronger push at 50 grams for actuation. However, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch remains unknown, while the Silent Red displays a notable bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Those who favor a lighter touch may find the TTC Silent Red more suitable, particularly for extended typing sessions in a work environment or during long gaming marathons. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness, with its heavier actuation force, could appeal to users desiring a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if the bottom out force for the Weightlessness were known, it would further clarify how these two switches compare, but as it stands, the Silent Red is the heavier of the two in terms of bottom out force, while the Weightlessness is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we observe that the Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Weightlessness measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Silent Red the longer travel option, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. For users who enjoy a more pronounced actuation, the Silent Red may be preferable. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness, with its shorter 3.4 mm travel distance, caters to those seeking more responsiveness and quicker key presses, ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may hinge on personal preference for travel depth versus quick actuation.
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 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
When evaluating the sound profile of the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it stands out with its muted characteristics, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional, more clacky mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern, such as offices or shared living spaces. The Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, while lacking specific sound descriptors in the provided information, is noted for its balanced sound profile, which suggests a pleasant auditory experience that complements its tactile feel. Together, they cater to different preferences; the Silent Reds aim for minimal noise, while the Weightlessness switches strike a middle ground.
In terms of feel, the Silent Red offers a smooth, buttery keystroke that provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It is characterized as mild, making it approachable for users who prefer a more gentle experience. The polished nature of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to the overall comfort during extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, while specifics regarding the feel of the Weightlessness switch are not provided, the mention of a subtle to moderate tactile response indicates that it delivers a satisfying bump without overwhelming the user. This blend of tactile feedback focuses on enhancing the typing experience without the harshness of stronger tactile switches.
In conclusion, for individuals looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Red linear switch excels with its muted sound and polished feel, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offers a balanced auditory and tactile experience, though we lack deeper insights into its specific characteristics. Both switches cater to distinct user preferences, ensuring that newcomers can find a suitable option based on their specific environment and typing needs. Whether favoring a buttery, silent performance or a gentle tactile response, users can expect quality typing experiences from either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you value a quiet typing experience and a smooth, fluid keystroke, the Silent Reds are an excellent choice, especially if you're working in an office or a shared living situation where noise levels matter. Their medium-heavy bottom-out force and muted sound profile ensure that you can type away without disturbing those around you, making them ideal for focused work environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a subtle tactile feedback but still leans towards a quieter operation, the Gateron Weightlessness is worth considering. While its specific bottom-out force is not defined, its balanced sound and moderate tactile feel can enhance your typing experience for those who enjoy a bit of a physical cue without the noise. Ultimately, it boils down to whether you prioritize quietness and smoothness or prefer a tactile response in your typing sessions.
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