HMX Macchiato vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Macchiato and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When navigating the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, especially between options like the HMX Macchiato and the TTC Silent Brown. The HMX Macchiato, crafted by YG Studio, is celebrated for its linear design, providing a silky smooth typing experience coupled with a bright sound profile that can enhance every keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches are tactile, offering a comforting typing experience highlighted by a light to moderate resistance and a rounded tactile bump that many users find satisfying. Additionally, their muted sound profile makes them an excellent choice for quiet environments, where excessive noise can be distracting. Each switch brings distinct advantages; the Macchiato appeals to those who prioritize fluidity and sound, while the Silent Brown caters to users seeking a tactile feel without the clatter. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Macchiato and TTC Silent Brown switches present a fascinating contrast in their top housing materials, with the Macchiato utilizing nylon and the Silent Brown opting for polycarbonate. The nylon housing of the Macchiato contributes to a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, as this softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown’s polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisper and more resonant due to its stiffer nature. This fundamental difference in material composition fundamentally influences the auditory experience when typing, with the nylon eliciting more subdued tones while the polycarbonate produces a clearer timbre.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both the HMX Macchiato and TTC Silent Brown are made of nylon, which means they share a common characteristic when it comes to sound absorption and overall feel. The nylon material in the bottom housing dampens sound, yielding a deeper and richer sound profile that significantly affects the bottom-out feel of both switches. Because both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, typists can expect a similar tactile experience that leans towards a muted auditory feedback. This is particularly relevant during the act of bottoming out, where both switches will produce a consistent deep bass sound, aligning closely in their performance.
When you press down on either switch, you will experience the combined effects of the bottom housing’s nylon, while the difference becomes more pronounced during key release due to the distinct top housing materials. The nylon of the Macchiato will continue to promote that dulcet, rounded sound, while the polycarbonate top of the Silent Brown will ensure that the retraction is markedly sharper and more resonant. Thus, while the bottom housing similarities provide a level of consistency in both switches' auditory and tactile experience, the contrasting top housing materials are what ultimately define their individual sound profiles, offering opportunities for typists to select based on their sound preference.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Macchiato features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to press down for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel but could be tiring over long periods. The bottom out forces further highlight this difference, with the Macchiato's bottom out force at 50 grams being lighter than the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams. As a result, the Macchiato is the better choice for those who prefer a lighter switch for comfort, while the heavier Silent Brown might appeal to users who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback. Overall, the Macchiato offers a lighter typing experience, whereas the Silent Brown provides a more robust feel, catering to different preferences among keyboard users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Macchiato features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Macchiato the longer travel switch, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who enjoy a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Brown's 3.8 mm travel distance caters to those seeking a quicker response, making it suitable for gamers who prefer a more responsive feel. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct travel experiences, the difference in their distances may appeal to different typing preferences; longer travel for depth versus shorter travel for speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Macchiato switch is known for its bright sound profile, offering a lively acoustic experience that can enhance the typing atmosphere. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch features a muted sound profile, effectively decreasing the noise level you would typically associate with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Brown a great option for quiet environments or shared workspaces where sound volume matters. While the Macchiato may provide a more expressive sound, the Silent Brown's design minimizes auditory distractions, leading to a more subdued auditory environment.
Regarding the feel, the HMX Macchiato is characterized by a silky smooth typing experience that delivers an effortless keystroke. This smoothness tends to make typing a more fluid experience, appealing to users who enjoy a consistently light touch. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a buttery feel with a light-medium resistance, featuring a satisfying rounded tactile bump that adds a delightful tactile feedback without being overly pronounced. The gentle and polished nature of the Silent Brown enhances its usability, providing a comfortable typing experience that suits a wide range of users. Although they differ in tactile feedback, both switches aim to provide smooth and enjoyable keystrokes.
In summary, the HMX Macchiato and TTC Silent Brown switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Macchiato excels with its bright auditory feedback and smooth keystroke, making it ideal for those who appreciate an engaging typing sound. Conversely, the Silent Brown stands out with its muted sound and softly rounded tactile bump, offering a quietly satisfying experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you’ll find that both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Macchiato linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you value a lightweight and silky smooth experience, the Macchiato is an excellent choice for you—its lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a more fluid typing sensation. Furthermore, its bright sound profile can be a joy for those who enjoy an audible click, though it may not be suitable in quieter environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback with a satisfying bump, the Silent Brown switch, with its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams, provides a comforting resistance that many find excellent for long typing sessions. The muted sound design makes it a perfect option for shared spaces or office environments, where minimal noise is appreciated. Therefore, your choice should be guided by whether you prioritize a smooth, lightweight feel or a tactile, muted experience in your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
