Durock Light Tactile vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer a tactile typing experience are the Durock Light Tactile and the TTC Silent Brown. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a refreshing contrast to the sharper tactile switches available. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches from TTC are known for providing a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, the Silent Brown switches excel in offering a muted sound profile. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about which switch would best suit your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Durock Light Tactile and the TTC Silent Brown both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that intend to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either of these switches.

In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Light Tactile employs nylon, while the Silent Brown also utilizes nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile as a result of its softness and sound-absorbing properties. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Therefore, both the Light Tactile and Silent Brown switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound.

It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall performance of the switches. While the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has more influence on the sound when the key is released. Although the Light Tactile and Silent Brown differ in their bottom housing materials, users can expect similar qualities and results in terms of the overall sound profile and typing experience when using these switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences to consider. First, in terms of weight, the Light Tactile is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Silent Brown is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which also falls into the medium-heavy range.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Brown may be more suitable as the actuation force is lower. This allows for a quicker and more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for long periods of typing, such as in a work environment or during extended gaming sessions.

However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Light Tactile may be the preferred choice. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback when typing.

Overall, both switches offer a medium-heavy force, ensuring a solid and responsive typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch depends on personal preference and typing style. In terms of weight, the differences between the two switches are relatively minor, and individuals can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Light Tactile switch falls in the more traditional range, providing a satisfying amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a slightly shallower travel distance at 3.8 mm, which may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches. If you prioritize a shorter travel distance for increased responsiveness, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Durock Light Tactile switch with its 4 mm travel distance would be more fitting. Both options have their own advantages, so it ultimately comes down to individual preference and typing or gaming style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switches at home or work. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile. This means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Brown switches minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you're looking for a similar experience, both switches provide a pleasant sound signature that is less intense and more gentle on the ears.

In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. It falls within a safe and comfortable middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubrication, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. The TTC Silent Brown switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the Light Tactile, the Silent Brown also has a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.

In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch and TTC Silent Brown switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides an angelic and jelly-like sound signature, with a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. It offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It provides a buttery and fluid keystroke experience, with a mild and polished feel for comfortable typing. Ultimately, both switches offer pleasant and approachable qualities, allowing users to achieve a similar level of satisfaction, regardless of their choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is the choice for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound profile and a rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the better option. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a light-medium level of resistance. The Silent Brown switch also has a buttery keystroke experience, making typing seamless and effortless. Furthermore, it has a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and refined typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, and your choice should depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more