HMX Blue Topaz vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Silent Brown each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Blue Topaz, a linear switch, is praised for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall satisfaction. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch, boasts a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile for those who prefer a quieter environment. While the Blue Topaz is known for being easy-to-press and clacky, the Silent Brown is described as buttery, mild, muted, and polished. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Silent Brown switches both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. The use of translucent polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this similar top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz uses nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar sound experience.
Although both the Blue Topaz and Silent Brown switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as nylon for the bottom housing, the impact of each material varies in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing material has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a combination of qualities to be experienced throughout the typing process. The use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Silent Brown switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their composition. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing to create a clear and resonant sound, the Blue Topaz's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper sound profile, whereas the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar typing experience. Understanding the impact of each housing material allows for a more informed decision when selecting a switch based on sound preferences and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch differ in weight. The Blue Topaz has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Silent Brown features a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may enjoy the Blue Topaz for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the Silent Brown requires a slightly heavier touch compared to the Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches are excellent choices for those looking for a quicker response time and a more compact key press. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown for its faster response, while typists who prefer a more substantial feeling key press may lean towards the HMX Blue Topaz. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch provides a clacky typing experience, with a sharp and snappy sound that adds a bit of flair to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, ensuring a quieter typing experience that is ideal for shared workspaces or late-night sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Blue Topaz offering a more pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Silent Brown's subtle and understated noise level.
In regard to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for actuation and providing a light and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation that is comfortable and approachable to most users. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch is noted for its polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and a sleek typing experience that enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz and TTC Silent Brown switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press feel, the Silent Brown stands out with its muted sound profile, buttery typing experience, and polished finish for reduced friction. Ultimately, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing comfort. It's important to note that the specific sound and feel of these switches may be further influenced by factors such as keycap material, keyboard construction, and personal typing technique. Nonetheless, whether you opt for the Blue Topaz or the Silent Brown, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a super smooth and lightweight feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown could be more appealing. Additionally, if you prefer easy-to-press switches with a gentle resistance, opt for the Blue Topaz, whereas if you enjoy smooth and polished switches offering a more uniform typing sensation, the Silent Brown might be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your typing experience to feel and sound.
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