TTC Iron vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Iron switch is characterized by its clacky sound signature and swift, fatigue-free typing experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, perfect for users looking for a more subtle typing experience. 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
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and TTC Silent Brown switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and feel. The Iron's POM housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the bottom housing of the Iron maintains the deep and muted sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown contributes to a fuller and rounder sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Iron and TTC Silent Brown switches provide unique sound profiles, they also share some similarities. Both POM and polycarbonate create pleasing sound profiles, though with different characteristics. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Silent Brown's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their housing materials enhancing the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Iron and TTC Silent Brown switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Whether you prefer the deep and muted sound of the POM housing in the Iron or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Silent Brown, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. The Iron requires 41 grams to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Silent Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out. The Iron switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference, with the Iron being lighter and the Silent Brown being medium-heavy. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Iron linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled as the key is actuated. This means that in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a consistent experience for the user. The Iron and Silent Brown switches offer the same level of feedback and response in terms of key travel, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a certain travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience. While the Iron switch leans towards a more pronounced and energetic sound, the Silent Brown switch focuses on a tranquil and subtle auditory experience, catering to those who prefer a more serene typing environment. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Iron linear switch boasts an easy-to-press quality that requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Its mild characteristics provide a responsive and low-impact typing feel, enhancing overall typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Whether you prefer the easy actuation of the Iron switch or the polished feel of the Silent Brown switch, both options offer a comfortable and pleasurable typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Iron switch excels in providing a clacky sound signature and easy actuation, appealing to those who enjoy a more energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch delivers a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel, catering to individuals who prefer a tranquil and refined typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound feedback and typing feel, ensuring that you will find a suitable option for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation force, pronounced clacky sound, and swift typing sessions, the Iron switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump, a muted sound profile, and smooth key travel, the Silent Brown switch is the way to go. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what feels right for you. Consider your typing habits, preferences in sound and feel, and choose the switch that best suits your needs for a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
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