HMX Gravel vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and the TTC Silent Brown offer distinct yet appealing characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gravel, recognized for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, stands out as a linear switch that requires a medium-light actuation force, making every keystroke feel responsive and effortless. This smoothness is ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch, provides a comfortable typing experience characterized by a light-medium resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. The muted sound profile adds to its appeal, making it a favorite choice for office environments or shared workspaces where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While both switches have their unique selling points—smoothness versus tactility and quietness—each caters to specific user preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Gravel and TTC Silent Brown switches share a commonality in their housing materials, specifically in the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate allows for a clearer resonation, enhancing the auditory experience, especially when RGB lighting is utilized, thanks to its translucency. This similarity guarantees that users of both switches can expect a vibrant and pronounced sound output, particularly when they engage with the key and during the release, where the top housing plays a significant role.

Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of both switches introduces a contrasting acoustic signature. Nylon is known for its dampening properties, providing a fuller, deeper sound profile compared to the higher-pitched characteristics of polycarbonate. The softness of nylon helps absorb impact and sound, leading to a duller and rounder audio experience when the key bottoms out. As such, while both switches enjoy the benefits of polycarbonate at the top, the experience at the bottom diverges due to the nylon material's ability to create a more muted sound during the act of typing. This duality allows users to appreciate a balance between clarity and warmth in their typing experience.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for sharpness and nylon for warmth ensures that both the HMX Gravel and TTC Silent Brown switches deliver a unique yet complementary sound profile. When pressed, users will experience the nuances of both materials; the polycarbonate at the top brings out the brightness in the sound upon release, while the nylon underneath cushions and deepens the auditory impact during the key’s descent. In this way, the switches provide varied acoustic interactions that are rich and layered, appealing to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community while still maintaining a core similarity in design philosophy and material choice.

Weight

The HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch exhibit distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a similar ease of triggering keystrokes, which is beneficial for users looking for a lighter feel over extended typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Gravel switch is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's heavier 63.5 grams. This difference means that while both switches require the same initial pressure to activate a key, the Silent Brown offers a more substantial experience when fully pressed down, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push feel. Therefore, users who enjoy a lighter overall typing experience might lean towards the Gravel switch, whereas those who appreciate a heavier and more tactile response should opt for the Silent Brown.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they differ. The Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Gravel switch offers a quicker response, making it potentially more appealing to gamers who favor faster actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the HMX Gravel is the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown may be more suitable with its longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the differences are quite pronounced. The Silent Brown switches are notably muted, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for quieter environments. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the Gravel switches are not explicitly defined; however, linear switches are generally known for their smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, which can also lead to a quieter typing experience depending on various factors like the keyboard build and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switches provide an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience thanks to their medium-light actuation force, which allows for a responsive and effortless typing motion. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches are described with a range of qualities, including a buttery and polished feel, along with a mild resistance that provides a rounded tactile bump. This combination makes them approachable for most typists, giving a comfortable yet tactile experience that defines its character. While the Gravel emphasizes a seamless and smooth interaction, the Silent Brown introduces a tactile sensation, catering to those who enjoy the feedback from their keystrokes.

In conclusion, both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, but they cater to different preferences. The HMX Gravel linear switch is ideal for those seeking effortless smoothness and responsiveness in their typing, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is perfect for users who desire a gentle tactile feedback and a quieter operation. Ultimately, if someone appreciates the sound and feel of either switch, they can expect to receive a satisfactory experience aligned with their specific typing style and environment.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you favor an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience, are looking for a lighter bottom-out force for quick and effortless keystrokes, or if you prefer the unobtrusive sound of a linear switch, the HMX Gravel is likely your best bet. Its light actuation force and polished feel make it ideal for gaming or typing sessions where speed and accuracy are paramount. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback while typing and require a bit more resistance, the TTC Silent Brown would be suitable for you. Its satisfied tactile bump, muted sound profile, and medium-heavy resistance provide a comfortable and engaging typing experience, particularly in quieter settings or shared workspaces where noise reduction is a priority. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal comfort and the specific contexts in which you’ll be using your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more