Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Jerrzi Honey Bean, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. The Honey Bean switches are praised for their light and linear action, making typing a delightful experience with their silent operation. They are perfect for environments where noise reduction is essential, offering a discreet yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Their muted sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. While the Honey Bean switch is 'Easy-to-press' and 'Feathery', the Silent Brown switch is described as 'Buttery' and 'Polished'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the TTC Silent Brown, one noticeable difference lies in the top housing material used. The Honey Bean utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the POM top housing offering a more subdued sound compared to the louder and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is the bottom housing material used. The Honey Bean incorporates a POM bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. On the other hand, the Silent Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in sound profiles generated by the bottom housing materials may influence users' preferences based on whether they prefer a more muted sound from the POM housing or a fuller sound from the nylon housing during typing.
Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the TTC Silent Brown switches, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the POM housing on the Honey Bean creates a more muted sound compared to the polycarbonate housing on the Silent Brown, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the distinction between the softer nylon bottom housing on the Silent Brown and the stiffer POM bottom housing on the Honey Bean showcases the versatility of housing materials in influencing the sound and feel of mechanical switches. Ultimately, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Honey Bean is unknown while the Silent Brown has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Honey Bean may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push may lean towards the Silent Brown switch. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to varying preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is slightly shorter compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize fast response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, as both switches offer a relatively quick keystroke actuation. Ultimately, whether you choose the Honey Bean or Silent Brown switch will depend on personal preference regarding the feel of the key press - a slightly shorter travel distance with the Honey Bean switch or a slightly longer travel distance with the Silent Brown switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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, both the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch are described as producing a muted sound profile, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes them both suitable choices for environments where noise reduction is important, such as in an office or shared workspace. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch will also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light and gentle typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as providing a buttery, mild, and polished typing sensation, with smooth and fluid keystrokes and a refined finish for enhanced comfort. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the specific feel will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch excel in providing a quiet and comfortable typing experience. If you appreciate a linear switch with light actuation and minimal resistance, the Honey Bean may be the ideal choice, especially for a quieter workspace. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a rounded bump and a smooth key travel, the Silent Brown could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a silent and seamless typing experience with minimal noise, the Honey Bean switch is the way to go. Its light and linear action make it perfect for shared environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump and a slightly heavier resistance, the Silent Brown switch is the better choice. It offers a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel that enhances your typing experience. Consider your environment and typing preferences when choosing between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience.