Bsun Light Sakura vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Bsun Light Sakura, a linear switch, stands out for its ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it a fantastic option for those who value comfort and discretion during extended typing sessions—especially in office settings or shared spaces. Its gentle, fatigue-reducing design caters to users who want a smooth and quiet experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is characterized by its light to medium resistance and provides a satisfying tactile bump, which can enhance typing accuracy. The muted sound profile of the Silent Brown adds to its appeal, particularly for users who enjoy the feedback of a physical bump without overwhelming noise. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on your typing style and environment—one prioritizes quietness and ease, while the other focuses on tactile satisfaction and moderate resistance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Silent Brown switches both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This shared material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, thanks to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for users who plan on incorporating RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall aesthetic by allowing light to pass through effectively. As a result, users of either switch can expect similar auditory experiences in terms of sound clarity and vibrancy due to the identical properties of the top housings.
However, the differences in the bottom housing materials create distinct sound experiences between the two switches. The Light Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the crispness contributed by the top housing and results in a more cohesive sound profile across both housing components. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, which is softer and absorbs sound more effectively. This characteristic yields a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a stark contrast to the Light Sakura's overall sound experience. Therefore, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, the differing bottom housing materials play a significant role in the auditory textures produced upon keypresses and releases.
When pressed, the impact of the bottom housing becomes particularly evident as the nylon construction of the Silent Brown raises the fullness and warmth of the bottom-out sound and feel, contrasting sharply with the Light Sakura's clearer, more resonant execution. While both switches may sound similar during the release phase due to their matching polycarbonate tops, the differing bottom housings lead to varying auditory experiences that reflect the unique characteristics and benefits of each material. End users can choose either switch based on personal preference for sound profiles, knowing that the top housings will deliver comparable results while the bottom housings will create distinct auditory experiences when actuated.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Light Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter switch that facilitates longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and an even weightier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to individuals who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. The variation in actuation forces indicates that while the Light Sakura may allow for faster inputs with less finger strain, the Silent Brown provides a firmer push that some users may find more satisfying. Overall, the Light Sakura is the lighter option, while the Silent Brown is the heavier choice, appealing to different user preferences in tactile feedback and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Light Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Brown measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the Light Sakura the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Silent Brown's longer travel distance might cater to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback and depth in their keystrokes. If you're someone who enjoys the quick and responsive feel of a shorter travel distance, the Light Sakura would be the better choice, whereas those who favor a more traditional and pronounced keystroke may find the Silent Brown more to their liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is designed for discretion, making it well-suited for shared environments like offices where quiet operation is essential. Its silent nature ensures that keystrokes produce minimal noise, allowing users to type without drawing attention or disturbing colleagues. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted sound that, while still quieter than traditional mechanical switches, offers a rounded acoustic experience. This muted character minimizes the typical clack of mechanical keyboards, making it a great choice for those who desire both a tactile feel and a peaceful typing environment. Overall, both switches cater to users seeking a quieter experience, though the Light Sakura is explicitly designed for absolute silence, while the Silent Brown offers a muted sound that still retains some acoustic feedback.
When considering the feel, the Light Sakura is renowned for its ultra-light touch, creating a typing experience that feels effortless and comfortable during long sessions. This lightness helps reduce fatigue, making it an excellent choice for those who type extensively. In comparison, the TTC Silent Brown offers a buttery smooth keystroke, characterized by a light-medium resistance that provides a satisfying tactile bump upon actuation. This tactile feedback enhances the typing experience, making it more engaging without being overwhelming. Furthermore, the mild and polished qualities of the Silent Brown switch suggest a smooth and refined journey for each keypress, which can be quite appealing for many users. While the Light Sakura may appeal more to those seeking an ultra-light and fatigue-free typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown's tactile and smooth characteristics cater to those who appreciate a bit of feedback and a satisfying transition across the key travel.
Both the Bsun Light Sakura and TTC Silent Brown switches have unique attributes that make them ideal for different user preferences while sharing a common goal of minimizing noise. The Light Sakura achieves an exceptionally silent keypress with its ultra-light feel, perfect for prolonged typing with minimal distraction. On the other side, the TTC Silent Brown offers an engaging tactile experience with its muted sound and smooth keystrokes, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness. For those prioritizing silence above all, the Light Sakura would be the clear choice, while those who enjoy tactile feedback might find the Silent Brown more appealing. Ultimately, both switches can contribute to a pleasant typing experience, tailored to the individual's priorities regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and specific usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight and quiet typing experience, especially in collaborative environments or during extended typing sessions, the Light Sakura is the superior choice. Its gentle feel and low actuation force allow for comfortable, fatigue-reducing typing while keeping noise levels to a minimum—making it perfect for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Silent Brown switch might be better suited for you. Its satisfying tactile bump provides feedback that many find enjoyable, while still keeping noise to a muted level. This makes it a great option for both typing and gaming without being overly disruptive. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and any concerns regarding noise and feedback as you make your decision between these two excellent switches.
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