TTC Gold Brown vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, offer distinctive features that cater to different typing preferences. The Gold Brown is best known for its balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. Additionally, these switches have a rounded sound profile that is softer compared to most switches, without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. With its silky smooth type feel, this switch strikes a balance between being polished and maintaining a tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches share similarities in their housing materials, as they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing lighting display. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either of these switches.
However, the switches differ when it comes to their bottom housing materials. The Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear utilizes the same material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different sound experience when using the Gold Brown compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear due to their different bottom housings.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the sound and feel during the bottom-out phase of pressing a key. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown and Semi-Silent Linear will contribute to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. However, the top housing of a switch plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing the key. As both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, users can anticipate a similar sound profile when lifting their fingers off the keys, with a sharper and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate material.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have a medium level of force required for bottoming out, with the Gold Brown having a slightly higher bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's 62 grams. However, the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Gold Brown's 55 grams of actuation force.
Considering weight in relation to typing experience, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Gold Brown as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This would be advantageous for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force. Unfortunately, without knowledge of the Semi-Silent Linear's actuation force, it is difficult to determine which switch would provide a stronger push feel.
Overall, while the Gold Brown and Semi-Silent Linear switches have similar medium levels of bottom out force, the varying actuation force and the unavailability of the Semi-Silent Linear's force make it challenging to directly compare the two. However, if the actuation forces were to be similar, it is likely that users would obtain similar results in terms of typing experience, with the only discernible difference being the slight variation in bottom out force between the two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's 3.7 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Gold Brown switch, one will feel a slightly greater distance traveled compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
In terms of preferences and applications, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, offering a deeper depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, a 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter but still within the range of a traditional distance. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference. If one prioritizes a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear may be more suitable. However, if a more pronounced and satisfying key press depth is desired, the longer travel distance of the Gold Brown switch will provide that. Either way, both switches offer reliable performance and a satisfying tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold 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 Gold Brown for $3.28.
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Gold Brown tactile switch offers a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches. It is not completely silent, but the sound is much quieter. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a subdued sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Both switches fall under the neutral sound profile category, meaning they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience. The Gold Brown tactile switch falls under the mild category, offering a more gentle typing experience. It also features an accented feel, which means it provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it has a buttery and polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined keystrokes with reduced friction. Similarly, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a buttery and polished feel. It also has snappy characteristics, making it super responsive and providing a more alive typing experience. Overall, both switches offer approachable qualities in a safe, middle-ground zone.
Considering all the available information, it can be concluded that both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer desirable qualities. The Gold Brown provides a balanced feel with a slight bump and moderate weightiness. It has a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is one of the most innovative linear switches, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. Its type feel is silky smooth but not over-polished. While they may have some differences in sound and feel, both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes. Therefore, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, either of these switches can be a great choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a balanced and satisfying typing experience, where you can enjoy a slight bump without it being too overwhelming, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is an excellent choice for you. These switches have a moderate weightiness and a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches. With a bottom out force of 63 grams, these switches offer a medium actuation force that suits most purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and whisper-quiet typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is a great option. These switches maintain a clacky bottom-out sound while producing a dampened sound during key presses. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches also offer a medium actuation force. The Semi-Silent Linear switches are known for their silky smooth type feel, making your typing experience feel effortless and uniform.
Both switches share similarities in terms of actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, as well as for use at home or work. However, the Gold Brown switches are described as having a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear switches offer a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch depends on your personal preferences for typing experience. Whether you prioritize a balanced and satisfying bump or a subdued and whisper-quiet typing sound, both switches have their unique advantages. Consider your preferences and choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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