Cherry MX Red vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Red and the TTC Silent Brown mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences and needs. The MX Red is a linear switch that is praised for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, the Silent Brown switches boast a muted sound profile that many find appealing. While the MX Red is 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Silent Brown is 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
In comparing the Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Brown housing materials, we see that the MX Red utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Silent Brown uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The nylon material in both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, giving a clearer and more resonant tone. The clear translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic advantage to the Silent Brown.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the MX Red and Silent Brown switches offer deep and full sound profiles attributed to the nylon material used in the bottom housing. This similarity means that typing on either switch will provide a similar experience in terms of sound feedback. However, where they differ is in the top housing material: the MX Red's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a crisper and more resonant tone. This contrast highlights how the choice of top housing material can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch.
When considering the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the housing materials of both the Cherry MX Red and TTC Silent Brown play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switch. The split between nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings affects the tactile feedback and sound production at different points during a keystroke. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these differences allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Brown is heavier with a measurement of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the MX Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter force may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier force can provide a more satisfying push feel. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their bottom out force, with the Silent Brown being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Silent Brown switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the MX Red switch. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Silent Brown switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the MX Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound, which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the MX Red providing a deeper and more robust sound compared to the Silent Brown's quieter and softer tone.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which can provide some tactile feedback during typing. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch is also noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Overall, the MX Red offers a slightly heftier and textured feel, while the Silent Brown provides a more uniform and gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Red provides a deeper and more pronounced sound profile with a textured feel, while the Silent Brown offers a quieter and smoother typing experience with a polished finish. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile and a smooth linear keystroke, the Cherry MX Red switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance, a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value the most.
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