TTC Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that combines a smooth typing experience with minimal noise, there are two options worth considering: the TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion. The Silent Red switch is renowned for its ability to deliver a seamless typing experience that is perfect for office or shared living spaces due to its muted sound profile. With a consistent and smooth feel from top to bottom, these switches offer maximum comfort with a padded bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, offering a unique and satisfying buttery smooth keystroke feel. These switches provide a crisp and responsive typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct qualities, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice of material brings some similarities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal when using either the Silent Red or the WS Onion.
On the other hand, the Silent Red and the WS Onion differ in terms of their bottom housing material. The Silent Red features a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Onion also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, users can experience a more robust and satisfying typing experience with both the Silent Red and the WS Onion due to the nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the key press. The bottom housing will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing the key. Therefore, users can expect some nuanced differences in the overall sound profile and feel between the Silent Red and the WS Onion, as their top and bottom housing materials may slightly alter the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the TTC Silent Red is 45 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel when triggering a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Onion is unknown, which means we can't make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
Considering the weight of the switches is important because it can greatly affect the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the TTC Silent Red may be a suitable choice as it allows for longer typing durations, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a heavier switch. While the actuation force of the WS Onion is unknown, its bottom out force matches that of the Silent Red, suggesting a similar heaviness in usage.
In conclusion, the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Red and WS Onion switches have some similarities and differences. The Silent Red has a known actuation force, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the actuation force of the WS Onion is unavailable for comparison. However, both switches share the same bottom out force, indicating a similar heaviness when pressing the keys all the way down. The weight of the switches should be considered based on personal preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the WS Onion has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of comparison, the WS Onion has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Red.
Having a shorter travel distance can be advantageous for gamers who prioritize quick response times. The shorter distance allows for faster key presses and can give a more responsive feel. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial key feel, the switch with a longer travel distance, such as the WS Onion, may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Silent Red and the WS Onion depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Understanding the difference in travel distances can help in choosing the switch that aligns with individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 Red is best described as having a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Reds are specifically designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them perfect for office or shared living space use.
On the other hand, the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, which makes it suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use these switches at home or work, the WS Onions will deliver a crisp and responsive feel without being too loud.
When it comes to feel, both the Silent Red and WS Onion switches provide a buttery smooth keystroke experience. This implies a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The use of high-quality materials and possibly factory lubing ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Silent Red and WS Onion switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a muted or neutral sound profile, depending on your preference, and deliver a buttery smooth typing experience with a refined finish.
It's important to note that individual preferences for sound and feel may vary, and the overall typing experience is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have their unique qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and use cases. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience and need a switch that won't disturb others around you, the Silent Red is the perfect choice. With its muted sound profile, it is ideal for office or shared living spaces. Additionally, the Silent Red offers a smooth and consistent feel throughout the keystrokes, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort.
On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive typing experience, the WS Onion is worth considering. Its polycarbonate and nylon construction allows for a sleek and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Onion also offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or work.
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is essential to consider your priorities for sound and feel. If a quiet and comfortable typing experience is your main concern, the Silent Red is the way to go. However, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a versatile sound profile, the WS Onion is a great choice.
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