HMX Cheese vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are clear differences in both feel and sound. The HMX Cheese switches are praised for their unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light feel, providing a satisfying clacky sound signature that is unique to them. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a rounded tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences in typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the TTC Silent Brown switches, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound to create a deeper and fuller sound. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cheese uses nylon while the Silent Brown employs polycarbonate. The Cheese's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
Despite both switches sharing nylon for their bottom housing, the distinction in their top housing materials creates a noticeable difference in sound profile. The Cheese's use of nylon throughout the housing results in a consistent deep and full sound when typing, while the Silent Brown's mix of polycarbonate for the top housing introduces a sharper and more resonant tone. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic for users who prioritize customization in their setup.
The separate top housing materials of the HMX Cheese and TTC Silent Brown switches highlight how different materials can influence the sound profile of a switch. The Cheese's nylon top housing accentuates a duller and rounder sound, particularly when releasing a key, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing enhances a sharper and crisper sound experience. This demonstrates the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of a switch, with each material offering unique characteristics that can cater to varied preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, whereas the Silent Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a heavier option. The lighter actuation force of the Cheese may be preferred by those who enjoy a smoother typing experience and want to reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Brown provides a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Cheese has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Brown. The difference of 0.3 mm might not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cheese with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress might opt for the Silent Brown. Both switches offer a different feel and typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
Overall, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cheese switch provides a clacky, poppy, and crispy sound with unparalleled smoothness during typing, while the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile with a satisfying rounded tactile bump. When it comes to feel, the Cheese switch is known for its smooth and pristine typing experience, while the Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, offering a comfortable and polished typing sensation. Both switches may provide similar results in terms of typing experience, but the specific qualities of sound and feel make them distinct choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light touch with a satisfying sound signature, the HMX Cheese switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile and a tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switches would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Make sure to test out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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