TTC Gold Brown vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Silent Brown. The Gold Brown switches are best known for their balanced qualities, with a slight but satisfying tactile bump. These switches also have a moderate weightiness to them and produce a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches, although not completely silent. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and the same satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, which makes them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 TTC Gold Brown and TTC Silent Brown switches share the same housing materials, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for enhanced lighting effects. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, despite the shared housing materials, there are potential differences in how they impact the switch's performance. The qualities brought by the top and bottom housings are divided, with the bottom housing having more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the overall sound profile may be similar between the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Silent Brown, the balance and nuances of the sound may vary slightly.
In summary, both the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Silent Brown benefit from the polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile alongside the aesthetic advantage of allowing RGB lighting to shine through. The nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound, with its softer plastic absorbing more sound for a rounder tone. While the overall sound profile may be comparable, the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings may lead to subtle differences in the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Silent Brown requires a gentler push to trigger a keystroke compared to the Gold Brown. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 63 grams, which means that once pressed all the way down, they provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required. In terms of weight, the Gold Brown can be considered slightly heavier due to its higher actuation force, while the Silent Brown is lighter. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a lighter or more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Gold Brown switch has a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper and more pronounced feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Silent Brown switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Gold Brown switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing 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 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 TTC Gold Brown switch offers a balanced experience. With a slight, satisfying bump and a rounded sound profile, these switches produce a softer sound compared to most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a more muted sound profile. These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. Keep in mind, however, that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer enjoyable sound profiles, with the Gold Brown being slightly louder and the Silent Brown being more muted.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Gold Brown and Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience. The Gold Brown switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke. The switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, resulting in a satisfying tactile bump. Additionally, the polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Silent Brown switch is also described as buttery, mild, and polished. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing sensation. The polished finish ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant typing feel, with the Gold Brown switch offering a slightly more pronounced tactile bump due to its "accented" characteristic.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch both offer enjoyable typing experiences. The Gold Brown switch provides a balanced sound profile, with a slight bump and a softer sound compared to most switches. It also offers a mild feel with a smooth and fluid keystroke, accentuated by a prominent but not overwhelming tactile bump. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a more muted sound profile, with a comfortable and gentle typing feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or Silent Brown switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a tactile bump, with the main difference being the level of sound produced. However, keep in mind that the final sound and feel will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In summary, if you value a balanced switch with a moderate actuation force and a rounded sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is a great option for you. These switches offer a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience. They are described as having a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound profile and a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. These switches also provide a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump. They are described as having a mild, buttery, and polished feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and Silent Brown switches depends on your preferences for sound and feel.
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