TTC Speed Silver vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear are two popular options. The Speed Silver is a linear switch that is known for its fast and precise typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque offer a unique blend of tranquility and precision. These linear switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, reducing switch noise while maintaining responsiveness. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches do not use silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is devoid of the usual cushioned sensation. Both switches offer a neutral and mild level of resistance, but the Speed Silver has a polished sound profile while the WS Silent Linear has a muted and subdued sound profile. These general pointers should give you a good idea of what each switch has to offer. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles they create. The Speed Silver boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. While both materials are effective in transmitting sound, polycarbonate tends to be stiffer, resulting in a more resonant and clear sound. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and more rounded sound.
Similarly, in terms of bottom housing materials, the TTC Speed Silver uses nylon, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear employs the same material. Both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon, which enhances the sound produced. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings in both the Speed Silver and WS Silent Linear produces a similar impact and sound experience.
However, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch contribute differently to the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both switches would be most noticeable during this action. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, having a greater impact on the sound profile at key release. Thus, although the housing materials may differ between the Speed Silver and WS Silent Linear, their overall sound experiences can still be similar due to the varying impacts of the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The TTC Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while its bottom out force is 55 grams, also within the medium-light range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare to the Speed Silver. However, its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.
In terms of weight, the Speed Silver is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the WS Silent Linear. This lighter actuation force allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, which can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, the WS Silent Linear provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, offering a stronger push feel to the keys. This can be preferred by individuals who desire a more tactile and pronounced typing feedback.
Although the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unknown, it is safe to assume that it falls within the medium or medium-heavy range due to its heavier bottom out force. Therefore, if someone is seeking a similar result to the Speed Silver's medium-light actuation force, they may find satisfaction with the WS Silent Linear, given its overall medium-heavy nature.
In conclusion, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding typing experience, with the Speed Silver offering a lighter and smoother feel, while the WS Silent Linear provides a heavier and more substantial push.
Travel distance
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth noting.
In terms of preference, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. With a travel distance of 3.4 mm, the TTC Speed Silver switch would be a suitable choice for those seeking quick and responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel to their typing might gravitate towards the WS Silent Linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm.
It is important to mention that both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, which vary from the traditional 4.0 mm to the shallower 3.0 mm. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether you opt for the shorter or the longer travel distance, both switches will provide satisfactory results in terms of functionality.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that it produces a moderate level of sound, suitable for various purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch also has a neutral sound profile, but it is described as muted and subdued. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It offers a more subtle and dampened sound signature, although not completely silent. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience. The TTC Speed Silver switch falls into the mild category, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable and comfortable for most users, as it stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch also provides a mild typing experience, making it gentle on the fingers. However, there is no specific mention of it being polished or having a refined finish.
In conclusion, both the TTC Speed Silver and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer desirable qualities for different preferences. The Speed Silver switch excels in providing a fast and precise typing experience with a pristine sound profile. It offers a neutral sound and a mild feel with a polished finish. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch stands out for its noise reduction capabilities, offering a muted and subdued sound profile. It also provides a mild typing experience, ensuring a blend of tranquility and precision. While the Speed Silver switch may provide a more traditional typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a unique and quieter alternative. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences for speed, precision, sound, and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its light-medium level of resistance and reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silvers offer a pristine sound profile and a neutral sound, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, they provide a mild and polished typing experience, with their smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you value a tranquil and quiet environment in your office or workspace, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. These switches elevate your working experience by ingeniously reducing switch noise with their discreet cutouts without the use of silicone dampeners. They offer unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. The WS Silent Linear switches provide a neutral sound profile overall, but with a muted and subdued sound compared to regular switches. In terms of feel, they also provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Speed Silver and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches depends on your priorities. If speed and precision are your primary concerns, go for the Speed Silvers. However, if a quiet and peaceful environment is important to you, opt for the WS Silent Linear switches. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for all skill levels and usage scenarios. In the end, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
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