KTT Miaowu vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Silent Brown. The Miaowu switch is a linear switch that boasts enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action with its POK stem, distinguishing it from switches with traditional POM stems. Known for its 'bouncy' and 'clacky' feel, the Miaowu switch offers a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch by TTC is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Its 'buttery', 'mild', 'muted', and 'polished' characteristics make it a favorite for those seeking a quieter 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Silent Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal choices for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the illumination to shine through. On the other hand, the Miaowu and Silent Brown differ in their bottom housing material, with the Miaowu utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Brown also opts for nylon for a similar effect of creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, both the Miaowu and Silent Brown benefit from their polycarbonate top housings, which provide a clear and resonant sound experience. This similarity is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the overall sound quality of both switches. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material, with the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing offering a deeper typing experience, while the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound for a quieter and more muted typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Miaowu and the TTC Silent Brown ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound, but the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper typing experience compared to the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing that offers a quieter and more subdued sound. Whether you prefer a fuller sound or a softer sound when typing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Miaowu has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. While both switches offer a smooth and silent typing experience, the Miaowu is lighter overall, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Silent Brown is heavier, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The Miaowu offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by those seeking a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, offering a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
In terms of sound, the Miaowu linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the traditional mechanical switch. Depending on personal preference, the Miaowu switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and distinct typing sound, while the Silent Brown switch caters to those who prefer a quieter and more subtle typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is characterized as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with seamless key presses. The Miaowu switch gives a more energetic and rebounding feel, while the Silent Brown switch provides a gentle and uniform typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch's polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel for a refined typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Miaowu switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more distinct and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile and a buttery feel, making it suitable for users who prefer a quieter and smoother typing sensation. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light switch with enhanced stem stability and a smooth keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be more suitable. Consider the sound profile you prefer - clacky for Miaowu or muted for Silent Brown, and the feel you desire - bouncy for Miaowu or buttery for Silent Brown. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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