Gateron CM vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly impact your typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. The CM switches break away from convention with their full nylon housing, resulting in a richer, deeper sound and an effortlessly smooth typing journey. With their lengthened, dual-staged spring, these switches provide a bouncy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, they have a muted sound profile that many appreciate. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron CM and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ significantly. The CM switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. The aesthetic benefits of polycarbonate also come into play, as its translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches opt for a nylon material. Nylon bottom housings are again known for providing a deeper and fuller sound experience due to their ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Both the Gateron CM and TTC Silent Brown switches feature this classic switch housing material, ensuring a similar sound profile when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Gateron CM and TTC Silent Brown switches, it's important to note that the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided accordingly. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key, emphasizing the importance of the housing material used in different parts of the switch.
In summary, the Gateron CM and TTC Silent Brown switches have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Gateron CM utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch combines a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound, with a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar deep and full sound experience. Whether seeking a mellower or more vibrant sound, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The CM linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls within the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switch requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but has the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Brown switch would be a suitable choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This lighter actuation force can enhance typing speed and allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the CM linear switch offers a stronger push feel due to its heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience.
Although the bottom out forces of both switches are the same, it is important to note that bottoming out refers to pressing the key all the way down, whereas actuation force measures the force required to trigger a keystroke. Therefore, while the bottom out force may be similar, the actual actuation force is lighter for the TTC Silent Brown switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch is heavier in terms of actuation force, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is lighter. Each switch offers a different typing experience, catering to the preferences of individuals who either prefer a stronger push feel or a lighter typing experience, respectively.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see that the CM has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Although both switches have relatively short travel distances, with the CM being slightly shorter than the Silent Brown, they still fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. If you value quick and responsive keystrokes, the Gateron CM with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deeper key press experience, the TTC Silent Brown with its slightly longer travel distance might be the preferred option. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and how you prioritize the feel and responsiveness of your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switches are best known for their bassy, thocky, and low-pitched qualities. These switches produce a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is characterized by a lower frequency range, creating a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches offer a muted sound profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Overall, if you prefer a deeper, more bass-heavy sound, the CM linear switches will be the way to go. However, if a quieter and more understated sound is your preference, the Silent Brown tactile switches will deliver.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CM linear switches and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches provide a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, where typing feels seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches offer a sleek and refined finish as a result of either materials used or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the CM linear switches boast a lengthened, dual-staged spring, providing a bouncy typing experience. The Silent Brown tactile switches, on the other hand, offer a mild typing experience, being approachable to most users with its safe middle-ground qualities. Whether you opt for the CM linear switches or the Silent Brown tactile switches, you can expect a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
Considering the available information, the Gateron CM linear switches and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches have distinct subjective qualities. The CM linear switches offer a deeper, richer, bass-heavy sound profile with a bouncy typing experience and a smooth, polished feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches provide a muted sound profile with a mild, comfortable typing experience and a smooth, polished feel. Both switches deliver a buttery typing sensation and benefit from factory lubing to reduce friction. If you are looking for a more prominent sound and a bouncy typing experience, the CM linear switches would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a quieter sound and a more understated typing experience, the Silent Brown tactile switches will provide similar results. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences in terms of sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making a decision between the Gateron CM linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling bass tones, along with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, the CM switch is an excellent choice. Its full nylon housing and factory lube job ensure a bouncy typing experience and a buttery and polished feel. The CM switch also offers a unique thocky and low-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you value a more muted and quieter sound profile, along with a comfortable typing experience and a mild and polished feel, the Silent Brown switch is a great option. Its light-medium level of resistance and rounded tactile bump provide a satisfying typing experience, while its muted sound minimizes noise. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound and feel.
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