Durock Piano vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Durock Piano, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. The Durock Piano is highly regarded for its proprietary material blend, making it one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users note a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature when using these switches. 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. Furthermore, users appreciate the muted sound profile of these switches. Both switches have their unique strengths and can enhance your typing experience in different ways. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Durock Piano Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the TTC Silent Brown switches are distinct and offer different sound profiles. The Piano's proprietary POM blend top housing provides a uniquely satisfying and deep sound. While the exact details of the blend are unknown, it is clear that the POM blend contributes to a rich and immersive auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Its translucency also makes it ideal for integrating RGB lighting. Though different, both materials enhance the sound quality of the switches, albeit in different ways.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Durock Piano's proprietary POM blend is again highlighted for its contribution to a satisfying and deep sound profile. Its specific properties remain undisclosed, but it is evident that the POM blend plays a significant role in creating a unique auditory experience. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the Piano's bottom housing remains a mystery, it is clear that both materials affect the overall sound produced by the switches, albeit in different ways.

When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Durock Piano and TTC Silent Brown switches, it becomes evident that the qualities each material brings are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing of both switches primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. The properties of the top housing, on the other hand, have a greater influence when you release a key, affecting the overall sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide satisfying auditory experiences, with the housing materials playing crucial roles in shaping the sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that there are some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force of the Piano switch is unfortunately unavailable, while the Silent Brown requires a gentle 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, both switches share the same weight at 63.5 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category.

Considering weight, some users may favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or marathon gaming sessions. These individuals would benefit from the Silent Brown switch, as its lower actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable use without causing unnecessary strain. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Piano switch, as its heavier actuation force would provide a stronger push feel and a more satisfying keystroke.

Although the actuation forces differ between the switches, both share the same bottom out force. This means that, despite the disparity in their initial keystroke triggers, once bottomed out, users can expect a similar tactile experience from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch depends on an individual's personal preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force.

Travel distance

The Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have different travel distances. The Piano has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it a more popular choice among them. Those who prioritize responsiveness may lean towards the Silent Brown switch due to its shorter travel distance. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt, lacking the depth they desire. For those seeking a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Piano switch with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Durock Piano linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Piano switch offers a deep, creamy sound signature that gives a sense of richness and depth to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch has a muted sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. It minimizes the clackiness 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. Overall, if you prefer a deeper and richer sound, the Piano switch would be a good choice, while if you prefer a quieter and more muted sound, the Silent Brown switch would be a better option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a pleasant typing experience, the Durock Piano switch would be an excellent choice. Its proprietary material blend offers a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a satisfying level of resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be a great option. It offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a rounded tactile bump. Additionally, its muted sound profile minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prefer linear or tactile switches and the specific characteristics you value in terms of sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more