TTC Bluish White vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch and unsure which one to choose? Look no further, as we present to you the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the TTC Speed Silver, a linear switch. The Bluish White is renowned for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched', it offers a unique feel and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is ideal for those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. With a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', providing a streamlined typing experience. While these general pointers give you an initial understanding, let's delve further into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials in the TTC Bluish White and TTC Speed Silver switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual appeal of the switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, there is a notable difference in the bottom housing material used in each switch. The Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Speed Silver also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon. Consequently, the choice of bottom housing material in the TTC switches plays a significant role in the overall sound experience. Users can expect a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing, while the top housing will have a greater influence when it comes to the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the TTC Bluish White and TTC Speed Silver switches are similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, both providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. With its nylon bottom housing, the Bluish White produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Speed Silver, also using nylon, creates a duller and rounder sound. Despite this difference, both switches offer unique sound experiences, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience depending on the user's preference.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, one can notice several differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, while the Speed Silver requires a slightly higher force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Bluish White is 50 grams, whereas the Speed Silver requires 55 grams for a full press.
In terms of weight, the Bluish White can be considered lighter as it requires lighter forces for both actuation and bottom out. This can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. It may be an ideal choice for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions, as it provides a more effortless typing experience.
On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a slightly heavier push feel. With its medium-light actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a more substantial typing experience. This can be favored by individuals who prefer a stronger push and require a more satisfying tactile response when typing.
It is worth noting that although the forces required for actuation and bottom out differ slightly between these two switches, the overall typing experience they offer may still be quite similar. Both switches are designed by TTC, so the quality and performance are expected to be comparable, despite the minor variations in force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience one is seeking.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Bluish White has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the Speed Silver may be the better option for you due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel, the Bluish White with its slightly longer travel distance could be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you desire.
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 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.
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 Bluish White tactile switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone, thanks to its bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate in terms of both actuation force requirement and sound. It's important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a range of qualities. It can be described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Its mild characteristics ensure a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the Bluish White is considered a stepped switch, which means it has two stages of travel - some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This adds to its mild feel. Lastly, the Bluish White switch can be described as having a subtle and polished feel, thanks to its gentle resistance and smooth and refined finish, respectively.
Similarly, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch also offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch differ in terms of sound. The Bluish White offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, while the Speed Silver provides a neutral sound profile. However, both switches share similarities in terms of feel. They both offer a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring smooth and effortless actuation. Additionally, their qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light-bottom out force and a snappy sound profile, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be the best choice for you. These switches offer a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the perfect choice. These switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Whether you prioritize a poppy sound and light feel or a fast and precise typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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