Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw and TTC Silent Brown are two popular options to explore. The Keygeek Raw switch stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight feel. With a slightly textured sensation straight out of the box, these switches are ideal for enthusiasts who prefer hand-lubing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance level and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, its muted sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. While the Keygeek Raw is characterized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle', the TTC Silent Brown is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the TTC Silent Brown switches exhibit significant differences in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which offers a unique sound profile that is distinct from the crisper and higher-pitched sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, while the Nylon & UPE blend in the Keygeek Raw provides a smoother sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend material, while the TTC Silent Brown features a nylon bottom housing. The UMPE & Si blend in the Keygeek Raw contributes to a different sound profile compared to the fuller and deeper sound associated with switches using nylon bottom housing like the Silent Brown. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the more resonant qualities of the UMPE & Si blend in the Keygeek Raw.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw and TTC Silent Brown switches may have different housing materials, their unique qualities contribute to distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw offers a smoother sound experience with its Nylon & UPE blend top housing and UMPE & Si blend bottom housing, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provide a crisper and deeper sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Keygeek Raw switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it uncertain, while the TTC Silent Brown switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch required for keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw switch requires 57.5 grams to fully press down, which is in the medium range. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, slightly heavier than the Keygeek Raw switch. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke may lean towards the TTC Silent Brown switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Keygeek Raw switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Keygeek Raw offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a more hearty depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different advantages based on personal preference, with the Keygeek Raw being ideal for those seeking a fast response and the TTC Silent Brown catering to those who prefer a deeper key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience overall. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Keygeek Raw being more versatile and the Silent Brown offering a quieter option, depending on personal preference and surrounding environment.
Moving on to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a textured feel due to its slightly rough surface, offering a unique tactile sensation. With a mild actuation force, the Keygeek Raw provides a comfortable and approachable typing experience for users. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch is known for its buttery feel, which indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch also boasts a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on whether a user prefers a textured or buttery feel, both switches offer distinct tactile experiences for different typing preferences.
Overall, when comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile and a textured feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile and a buttery feel, ideal for those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, both offer high-quality performance and can enhance typing satisfaction based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Keygeek Raw linear switch or the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a light-medium level of resistance with a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown switches may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a creamy yet lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel and a neutral sound profile, the Keygeek Raw switches could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and TTC Silent Brown switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.
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