Cherry MX Brown vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Brown and the TTC Silent Brown, both of which are tactile switches. The Cherry MX Brown is known for its subtle yet satisfying typing experience, with a gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets the Silent Brown switches apart is their muted sound profile, which is perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The MX Brown features a nylon top housing, while the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This variation leads to distinct differences in sound profile. The nylon top housing of the MX Brown absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it more suitable for switches with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches employ a nylon material. The nylon bottom housing of both the MX Brown and Silent Brown contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to their top housing counterparts. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prioritize a consistent sound experience throughout the entire typing process, both switches offer similar results due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when top and bottom housings differ within a switch, their respective qualities will influence different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down, commonly referred to as bottom-out. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released, known as the sound upon key release. Thus, if you are particularly concerned about the sound when letting go of a key, the specific top housing material becomes crucial in determining the overall experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a notable difference between the two. The Cherry MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which can be considered medium-light, while the TTC Silent Brown has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering the weight of a switch is important as it can affect the typing experience and the duration for which one can comfortably type. For individuals who prefer a lighter feel, the Cherry MX Brown may be a suitable choice, as its bottom out force is lighter than that of the TTC Silent Brown. This allows for longer typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the TTC Silent Brown, as its higher bottom out force provides a greater sense of feedback and resistance.
In conclusion, although the actuation force is the same for both switches, the Cherry MX Brown has a lighter bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Brown. Therefore, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown, while those seeking a heavier, more substantial feel may prefer the TTC Silent Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Cherry MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Brown being slightly longer. The MX Brown offers a more substantial depth when pressed down, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's shorter travel distance may be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a deeper or shallower feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtlety, offering a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They have a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes them a great option for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. 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 chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as having a textured feel, which means they have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother and more friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches offer a buttery, mild, and polished feel. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These switches also have a mild characteristic, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced qualities. Their polished finish reduces friction and ensures a sleek and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown and TTC Silent Brown switches have different subjective qualities. The MX Brown switches provide a subtler typing experience with gentle tactility and a bassy, low-pitched sound profile. They have a textured feel, which some users may prefer for its noticeable friction. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. They have a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild, and polished feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Depending on personal preference, either switch can be a suitable choice. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a smoother feel, the TTC Silent Brown switches would be a great option. However, if you prefer a more tactile and subtly audible typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be a better fit.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with subtle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is a great choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it provides a comfortable typing experience without being too heavy. Furthermore, the MX Brown switches have a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a bit more resistance, but still falls within the medium range. Additionally, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, making them much quieter compared to regular mechanical switches.
When it comes to the feel, the MX Brown switches have a textured surface, which can provide noticeable friction when pressed. This texture preference varies among users, as some prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. These switches are smooth, effortless, and offer reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between Cherry MX Brown and TTC Silent Brown switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing experience with subtle tactility and prefer a deeper, bassy sound profile, the MX Brown switches would be a good fit. However, if you value a comfortable typing experience with muted sound and a smoother, polished feel, the Silent Brown switches would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preferences, and working environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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