HMX Hibiscus vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, especially when contrasting the HMX Hibiscus and TTC Silent Brown switches. The HMX Hibiscus, classified as a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force and remarkable smoothness, providing a typing experience that many users describe as unparalleled. The satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature adds a delightful auditory element, making it an ideal choice for those who value speed and fluidity in their typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch, a tactile option, delivers a comfortable typing experience characterized by a light to medium resistance and a satisfying tactile bump. Its muted sound profile ensures a quieter environment, appealing to users who require a more discreet setup without sacrificing the tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy. Both switches bring unique characteristics to the table, catering to different typing preferences and environments. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the TTC Silent Brown, a notable contrast lies in the composition of their top housings. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb sound waves. This results in a sound experience that is more rounded and subdued, appealing to users who prefer a softer auditory feedback during typing sessions. In contrast, the Silent Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its rigidity and clarity. This material produces a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances aesthetic considerations, especially for users who wish to utilize RGB lighting, adding visual flair while maintaining sound quality.
On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their bottom housing: nylon. This consistency in material choice leads to a similar sound profile, specifically a deeper, fuller sound that accentuates the bottom-out experience during key presses. The nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to creating an overall quieter and rounded acoustic landscape. In this shared characteristic, both switches ensure that users experience a satisfaction in tactile feedback that is consistent, reinforcing the perception of quality across different switch specifications. Thus, despite the differences in top housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a sonic unity between the two models.
Overall, the combination of different top housing materials lends the HMX Hibiscus and TTC Silent Brown distinct auditory characteristics while maintaining a foundation of tonal similarity due to their matching bottom housings. Users who prioritize a thicker sound profile may gravitate towards the Hibiscus, while those who favor a clearer, crisper sound might choose the Silent Brown. Yet, both options promise a satisfying typing experience, demonstrating how the interplay of different materials in keyboard design significantly influences both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, understanding how each material contributes to the overall sound profile allows users to select switches suited to their preferences while recognizing the shared qualities that both options provide.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. Consequently, users favoring a lighter switch for comfort and longer use should opt for the Hibiscus, while those seeking a stronger push for a more pronounced typing experience might lean toward the Silent Brown. Overall, the Hibiscus is the lighter switch in both actuation and bottom out forces, emphasizing its comfort-oriented design.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Hibiscus stands out with a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Brown extends to 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Hibiscus has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Silent Brown, with its longer travel distance, may be preferable for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a more responsive experience, the Hibiscus would be the ideal choice, whereas the Silent Brown would cater better to those who enjoy a heftier keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is characterized by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, adding an auditory excitement to every keystroke. This lively sound profile makes it a delightful choice for those who enjoy some auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch possesses a muted sound profile, which produces a softer and quieter typing experience. This muted quality minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making the Silent Brown ideal for environments where discretion is necessary or where excessive noise could be a distraction.
Regarding feel, the HMX Hibiscus provides an ultra-light actuation force that ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience, which contributes to its luxury feel. Unfortunately, its detailed feel characteristics are not specified. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switch is associated with a buttery feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it features a mild nature, which allows for an approachable typing sensation that appeals to a wide range of users. The polished finish of the Silent Brown enhances its tactile experience, leaving users with reduced friction and a sleek keystroke.
In conclusion, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. While the Hibiscus is celebrated for its lively and crisp auditory feedback, the Silent Brown prioritizes a quieter and more subdued sound profile. Feel-wise, the Hibiscus is noted for its smoothness and light actuation, contrasting with the buttery and polished sensations offered by the Silent Brown. Depending on your individual taste, both switches can potentially provide satisfying typing experiences, albeit in different auditory and tactile environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you favor an ultra-light actuation with a smooth and quick keystroke that delivers a satisfying clacky sound, the Hibiscus is your best bet. This switch is particularly well-suited for games or typing tasks where speed and effortless keypresses are essential, allowing you to enjoy an almost buttery experience as you glide through your work or gaming sessions. Conversely, if you seek a more tactile experience with a pronounced bump and a muted sound profile—ideal for quieter environments like offices or shared spaces—the Silent Brown is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy resistance provides a comforting level of feedback during typing while minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical switches, making it approachable and polished for prolonged use. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your specific needs around sound, feel, and overall typing style, ensuring you enjoy the perfect switch for your unique setup.
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