TTC Speed Silver vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Speed Silver and the Gateron Type S are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Speed Silver is ideal for those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing, with its light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S caters to individuals who prefer a weightier keystroke and a balanced sound profile. While both switches fall under the category of 'Neutral', the Speed Silver is described as 'Mild' and 'Polished', whereas the Type S is labeled as 'Subdued'. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Speed Silver and the Gateron Type S switches both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound created by the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver switch. While both switches rely on nylon for their bottom housing, the different top housing materials lead to distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of top housing materials, the TTC Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its translucency and ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is especially useful when paired with RGB lighting to enhance the visual aesthetics of the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. The contrast between the polycarbonate and nylon top housings results in different tactile feedback and sound experiences for users of these switches.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing material for similar sound profiles when typing, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. The differences in housing materials between the TTC Speed Silver and the Gateron Type S switches create unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Speed Silver has a slightly lighter force of 55 grams, while the Type S has a heavier force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the Speed Silver leans towards the lighter side, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where lighter keystrokes are preferred. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of force sensitivity and typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Speed Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type S's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of which one to choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
The Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 Speed Silver and Gateron Type S switches both fall under the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most environments. The Speed Silver maintains a consistent tactile feedback with a light-medium level of resistance, resulting in a pristine sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S provides a slightly subdued sound due to its factory lubing techniques, offering a more subtle and deeper acoustic experience. The final sound outcome will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction with these switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Speed Silver switch is characterized by its mild and polished attributes. This means that users can expect a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. The switch strikes a balance between being approachable to most users and providing a sleek typing experience. As for the Gateron Type S, further information regarding the specific feel of the switch is not available. However, given its weightier 65g bottom-out and contemporary factory lubing techniques, it can be inferred that the typing experience is likely to be precise and satisfying for users who prefer a firmer keystroke.
In conclusion, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a weightier keystroke with a subtly subdued sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing experiences, with the Speed Silver focusing on speed and precision, while the Type S offers a more contemporary take on tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences, users can expect similar results in sound and feel based on the specific qualities of each switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the Speed Silver with its lighter 55g bottom out force and reduced travel distance would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke and a slightly subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type S with its 65g bottom out force and factory lubed switches would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize speed and precision or a weightier, slightly quieter typing experience.
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