TTC Silent Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are some key differences to note. The Silent Red is praised for its quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a switch that won't disturb others in office or shared living spaces. Additionally, it offers a smooth and consistent typing experience with a padded bottom-out feel for added comfort. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron boasts an innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preferences and needs. 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
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. Despite using the same material for the top housing, the differences in the design and construction of the switches may still yield slightly varied results in terms of sound and feel.
On the other hand, both the Silent Red and the Zero Degree 0° feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material for the bottom housing may impact the overall typing experience on each switch, providing a unique tactile sensation and sound feedback to users. Despite having the same bottom housing material, variations in the design and construction of the switches may still result in slightly different typing experiences.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Silent Red and Zero Degree 0° switches demonstrates how varying materials can influence sound and feel. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design elements and construction of each switch may lead to subtle distinctions in typing experience. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall performance of the switches, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Red is heavier at 63.5 grams while the Zero Degree 0° force is unknown. This means that the Silent Red offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the weight of the Zero Degree 0° remains a mystery. The actuation force is crucial for determining how easily a keypress is registered, while the bottom out force affects the overall typing experience by determining how much force is needed to fully press a key. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches can impact the typing feel and preference for users depending on their personal preferences for lightness or heaviness in a switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in the keyboard market. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
Overall, both the TTC Silent Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience with a more muted sound profile compared to other mechanical switches. The Silent Red provides a buttery and mild typing experience with a padded bottom-out feel for extra comfort, while the Zero Degree 0° boasts an innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure for unparalleled smoothness and stability. Both switches are ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as offices or shared living spaces. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of feel and any specific features that stand out to the individual user. If both switches offer similar qualities in sound or feel, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the way to go. It is perfect for office or shared living spaces where noise is a concern and offers a comfortable bottom-out feel for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you are seeking unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the ideal choice. This innovative switch design delivers a unique typing experience with its self-padding feature and dual-rail structure. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force.
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