Gateron Ink Red vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Silent Brown. The Ink Red, a linear switch, stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Known for its smoothness and crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds provide an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown, a tactile switch, offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets the Silent Browns apart is their muted sound profile, which many users appreciate. These switches are often described as "buttery," highlighting their smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate as a stiffer plastic in the Silent Brown allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is particularly advantageous for those who plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency.

In terms of their bottom housings, the Ink Red and the Silent Brown share a similar quality in terms of their sound profile. Both switches utilize a proprietary blend in their bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This clacky sound is often perceived as satisfying. However, where the two switches differ is in their material composition. The Ink Red's bottom housing is part of the proprietary INK blend, while the Silent Brown employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound.

When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's important to note that they play different roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. In this regard, the qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be the INK blend or nylon, will be more noticeable during typing. Similarly, the top housing material, whether it be polycarbonate or INK blend, will contribute to the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the two switches differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Silent Brown switches, it can be seen that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sensitivity. However, when it comes to bottoming out, there is a difference in force between the two switches. The Gateron Ink Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is slightly heavier, falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that while both switches require the same initial force to activate a keystroke, the Silent Brown switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. This can be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. However, for those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions, the Ink Red would be the suitable choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they differ slightly in their measurements. The Ink Red has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Silent Brown measures at 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the more common option, the Silent Brown offers a slightly shorter distance. Gamers often prioritize shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Silent Brown a favorable choice for this purpose. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes may lean towards the Ink Red, as its longer travel distance provides a feeling of a more pronounced press. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced typist and whether you plan to use it at home or work. However, what sets the Ink Reds apart is their unique chirpy sound, which adds a little squeak to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a muted sound profile. This means it produces softer and quieter sounds compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Brown switches excel at minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, offering a more serene typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. If a quieter and softer typing experience is desired, the Silent Brown switch would be an excellent choice, whereas if a more distinct and crisp sound is preferred, the Ink Red switch would be a great option.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch delivers a silky typing experience. This means it offers an exceptionally smooth feel when typing, enhancing overall typing comfort and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In addition, the Ink Reds provide a mild typing experience, falling within the safe and approachable middle-ground zone. This ensures that both the sound and feel of the switches are comfortable for most typists. Furthermore, the Ink Reds are polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The smooth and refined finish of these switches, which can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. Similarly, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a buttery typing experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation when typing. Like the Ink Reds, the Silent Browns also offer a mild typing experience and are polished, delivering a refined and sleek feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and minimize resistance, resulting in a satisfying tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch excels in providing a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile. It is best suited for those with a lighter typing style due to its lower actuation force. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a muted sound profile. Both switches prioritize smoothness and offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable and suitable for most typists. While the Ink Red produces a chirpy sound, the Silent Brown aims to minimize noise, providing a more serene typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and the desired level of resistance in the typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium actuation force requirement that is suitable for most users. The Ink Reds are known for their satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound profile. Additionally, if you appreciate switches with a unique acoustic signature, the slight chirpy sound of the Ink Reds sets them apart from the rest. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be a better option for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Ink Reds. The Silent Browns also have a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer qualities such as a mild typing experience and a polished finish, ensuring smooth and refined keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and TTC Silent Brown will depend on your typing style and preferences for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more