TTC Bluish White vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and Cherry MX Red are two popular options to contemplate. The Bluish White is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience, with a snappy sound profile categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a linear switch that offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, combining responsiveness with a robust typing experience categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them depends on personal typing preference and usage. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry MX Red, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder tone. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience when bottoming out on both switches will be quite similar in terms of sound and feel.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. This creates a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Bluish White. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder tone when typing on the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and the Cherry MX Red will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White offers a sharper and crisper typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more defined sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Red provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a more muffled and rounded tone. Both switches, however, share a similar typing experience when it comes to bottoming out, thanks to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that the Bluish White is the lighter option. The Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams with an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Bluish White, while those who like a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel may opt for the MX Red. However, since both switches have similar actuation forces, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke sensitivity. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bluish White offers a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for users looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the MX Red provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may offer a more satisfying feel for those looking for a deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Red being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.18.
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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, when comparing the subjective qualities of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both sound and feel. The Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a snappy typing experience that is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch provides a deeper, thocky sound with a slightly heftier feel that is described as textured. Despite these differences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics. However, it is important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in determining which switch would be more suitable for an individual. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups would give a newcomer a better understanding of which switch aligns best with their typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Bluish White tactile switch or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, your decision should ultimately come down to your personal typing preferences. If you are someone who enjoys a light and snappy typing experience with a satisfying poppy feel, the Bluish White switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier and more robust typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the MX Red switch could be the ideal option. Consider whether you prefer a low-pitched sound and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel with the Bluish White, or if you prefer a thocky sound and a textured feel with the MX Red. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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