TTC Silent Red vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two notable options are the TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Silent Red is celebrated for its whisper-quiet operation and buttery-smooth feel, making it an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels need to be kept in check. Its muted sound profile and padded bottom-out contribute to a comfortable typing experience, allowing for hours of use without strain. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch stands out for its distinct "thock" sound and exceptionally smooth keystrokes, delivering a tactile experience that many enthusiasts may find satisfying. Unlike the Silent Red's focus on noise reduction, the WS POM+ embraces a more resonant sound palette while still maintaining a linear action. Each switch offers unique advantages tailored to different preferences and environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, notable distinctions and similarities can be identified in their sound profiles and material characteristics. The Silent Red utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when keys are released. In contrast, the WS POM+ features POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This unique sound profile derives from POM’s inherently softer and more pliable nature, which allows for a rounder auditory experience. While both switches deliver distinct soundscapes due to their top housing materials, the TTC Silent Red leans towards crispness and brightness, while the WS POM+ emphasizes richness and depth.
On the bottom side, both the TTC Silent Red and the WS POM+ utilize different materials—nylon and POM, respectively. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Red is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its sound-absorbing properties that soften the sound profile even further. Conversely, the WS POM+'s POM bottom housing also favors a muted sound, but with its own unique tonal qualities. The synergy between the top and bottom materials shapes the overall acoustic experience of each switch. While the Silent Red's nylon is softer compared to the POM material, it contributes to an overall combination of depth and clarity, whereas the WS POM+'s tonal consistency is maintained throughout both housings.
Ultimately, while there are clear contrasts between the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and WS POM+, both switches can yield similarly pleasing results in terms of overall sound experience. The interplay of the different materials in each switch—which influences both the key press sound and the bottom-out feel—creates a distinctive typing experience. Users seeking a brighter sound might gravitate toward the TTC Silent Red for its sharper tones, while those desiring a deep, muted auditory profile may prefer the WS POM+. Nevertheless, each switch's combination of materials will cater to various preferences, ensuring both provide satisfying feedback and auditory experiences tailored to different typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Red linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a consistent typing experience in terms of keystroke activation. However, the bottom out force differs significantly: the Silent Red features a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the WS POM+ has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the WS POM+ the lighter switch overall, appealing to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Silent Red's heavier bottom out force may better satisfy users looking for a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Therefore, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Silent Red demands more force to bottom out, making it a better choice for those who crave a firmer feedback in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the Silent Red features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the WS POM+ has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Red offers a fuller key press experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feedback and depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the WS POM+, with its shorter travel distance, may cater better to gamers seeking quicker response times. Despite both switches being relatively close in travel distance, the Silent Red is marginally longer, suggesting that if you're looking for a more pronounced typing feel, the Silent Red would be the better option. Conversely, if you prefer the snappy action of a slightly shorter key press, the WS POM+ is ideal.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 linear switch is characterized by its muted profile. This switch produces a softer and quieter sound than many traditional mechanical switches, making it an ideal choice for environments where reducing noise is a priority. It minimizes the often-clacky sounds typically associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more conducive atmosphere for office or shared living spaces. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is known for a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature that adds a distinct acoustic quality to your typing experience. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, both switches will deliver different sound experiences, but the Silent Red will generally be quieter and thus more appealing for noise-sensitive settings.
In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red shines with its buttery smooth keystrokes, providing a consistent and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics of this switch make it approachable for most users, ensuring comfort for extended typing sessions. The smoothness is enhanced by a padded bottom-out feel that promotes a gentle typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue. On the other hand, while the feel of the WS POM+ switch is not explicitly described, it is designed to offer an unparalleled typing experience, which suggests it aims for smoothness as well. Since the tactile or resistant qualities remain unknown, it's challenging to draw direct comparisons on feel; however, enthusiasts typically expect a high level of performance from POM-based switches.
In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among users. The Silent Red is perfect for those who value a quiet and discreet typing experience, while the WS POM+ is ideal for individuals who enjoy a deeper acoustic profile. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience, both switches provide that, though they cater to different auditory environments and preferences. Overall, your choice between these switches will heavily depend on your specific needs and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a quieter experience while maintaining a smooth and comfortable feel, especially in communal settings like an office or shared living space, the Silent Red is an excellent option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, combined with its muted sound profile and polished typing experience, allows you to type efficiently without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter keystroke with a satisfying "thock" sound and prioritize the sheer joy of typing, the WS POM+ is designed for you. With a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and its buttery smooth keystrokes, this switch excels in creating a delightful auditory and tactile experience, making it ideal for personal use or environments where sound is less of a concern. Ultimately, consider your typing environment and your tactile preferences to make the best choice between these two enjoyable switches.