Top 10 silent switches in 2024
Video version
1. Most underrated
Linear: Jerrzi Honey Bean
These switches stand out with their POM housings and Ly stem, known for its low coefficient of friction, contributing to their exceptional smoothness. With a 42g actuation, they are lighter than 85% of switches, perfect for lighter typists. The Honey Beans also feature a built-in light diffuser for enhanced RGB effects.
Tactile: Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
These switches have quietly become one of Milktooth's bestsellers, and for good reason. Outemu, the manufacturer of the renowned Gazzew U4s, has created a great silent tactile switch with a medium to medium-heavy weight and a substantial tactile bump.
2. Stiffest
WS Silent Linear / WS Silent Tactile
These switches address the issue of mushiness common in silent switches by using a unique silencing mechanism with cutouts instead of stem dampeners. This results in a much firmer feel compared to other silent switches, although they may not be quite as silent. Both switches have a 63.5g bottom-out, making them heavier than around 60% of switches, ideal for those who prefer a slightly stiffer typing experience.
Honorable mention: Gateron 0º
These linear switches use a unique approach to silencing with differently placed pads to diffuse the impact, resulting in a more substantial typing experience than the average silent switch. The dual-rail design enhances the smoothness of each keystroke.
3. Budget
Akko Penguin (tactile) / Akko Fairy (linear)
Akko is known for offering the best bang-for-your-buck switches, and their silent options are no exception. Both the Penguin tactiles and Fairy linears provide a soft, pillowy typing feel with a short travel distance of 3.3mm. At around 31 cents per switch, you save 27% on them exclusively at Milktooth, with free shipping on orders over $49.
Honorable mention: Durock Silent T1
These switches have a heavier 67g bottom-out and a more pronounced, stepped tactile bump, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel and a sharper tactile sensation.
4. Super quiet… but not silent
TTC Neptune / TTC Venus
These switches feature a unique rail structure that ensures exceptional smoothness and minimal stem wobble throughout the entire keystroke. The tracks result in a more streamlined and smoother typing experience. Both switches have bottom-out forces lighter than approximately 80% of all available switches, perfect for users who prefer a lighter typing experience without compromising on smoothness or stability.
Honorable mention: Gazzew U4
The U4s offer a more intense, rounded tactile experience reminiscent of a light switch flick. Unlike switches that fade into the background, the U4s make their presence known with every keystroke.
5. Best overall
Linear: TTC Silent Frozen
This premium linear switch features a lengthened, silver-plated spring for a snappy feel, and a unique gasket on the stem with additional dampeners inside the switch for exceptional silencing. The factory lube job ensures silky smooth keystrokes, and the 43g bottom-out makes it very lightweight.
Tactile: TTC Silent Bluish White
For those who prefer a medium-light tactile switch, the Silent Bluish White offers a subtle yet satisfying tactile bump and a 50g bottom-out force. The sound is reminiscent of gentle rain tapping on a window – soft, soothing, and never distracting.
These switches have a universal appeal, making them the safest picks for silent switches. They strike a balance between weight and feel, offering a premium, refined experience that TTC is known for.