SP-Star RedBlue vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Brown mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a superior typing experience. The RedBlue, a linear switch, is renowned for its medium-light typing feel. With a higher-pitched sound profile, it falls under the categories of low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. On the other hand, the Silent Brown, a tactile switch, offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. An appealing characteristic of these switches is their muted sound profile, categorized as buttery, mild, muted, and polished. While these general pointers give an indication of each switch's key features, let's now delve deeper to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the RedBlue and the Silent Brown switches offer similar sound qualities and visual appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the bottom housings of these switches showcase a notable difference. The RedBlue switch utilizes polycarbonate, while the Silent Brown switch employs nylon. Polycarbonate in the bottom housing maintains the same sound characteristics as in the top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound when bottoming out keys. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, depending on your preference for the sound produced when typing or gaming, you may find either the RedBlue or the Silent Brown switch more suitable.
In summary, the housing materials in the SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Brown switches create distinct sound profiles. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. The difference arises in the bottom housing, where the RedBlue switch utilizes polycarbonate, while the Silent Brown switch employs nylon. This results in a sharper sound for the RedBlue switch and a deeper, fuller sound for the Silent Brown switch. Ultimately, determining the best switch for your needs depends on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, one noticeable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The RedBlue switch unfortunately does not disclose its actuation force in grams, while the Silent Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Silent Brown switch will register a keystroke with a gentler touch compared to the RedBlue. On the other hand, when it comes to bottoming out, the RedBlue switch requires a force of 57 grams, which can be classified as medium-light, while the Silent Brown switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorized as medium-heavy.
The importance of weight should also be taken into consideration. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged usage, such as those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions, the Silent Brown switch with its lighter actuation force would be a suitable choice. On the contrary, those who desire a more substantial and forceful typing experience may opt for the RedBlue switch with its heavier bottom out force.
Though the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, one can achieve similar results depending on their preference. The lighter actuation force of the Silent Brown can simulate a comparable effect to the RedBlue if one consciously types with a lighter touch, while the heavier bottom out force of the RedBlue can mimic the tactile feedback of the Silent Brown by applying additional pressure when typing.
In summary, the Silent Brown switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it well-suited for prolonged typing sessions, while the RedBlue switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more robust typing experience. By considering personal preferences and selecting the appropriate switch, users can optimize their typing experience to their liking.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The RedBlue has a more traditional travel distance, providing a sense of depth when pressed down. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a shallower travel distance, which is preferred by gamers who prioritize quicker response times. If responsiveness is your main concern, the Silent Brown with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, if you prefer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke, the RedBlue's longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a relatively higher-pitched tone. This means that the sound produced by these switches will have a more noticeable high-frequency element to it. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a muted sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. Overall, if you're looking for a higher-pitched sound experience, the RedBlue switches are a great option, while the Silent Brown switches offer a more muted and quieter sound profile.
In terms of feel, both the RedBlue and Silent Brown switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle keystroke compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches fall into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of typing feel, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Silent Brown switches are also described as "buttery," implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless and effortless typing sensation. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and pleasant typing feel.
Taking into account the available information, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches have different subjective qualities but both offer a pleasant typing experience. The RedBlue switches are best suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and a muted sound profile. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound or a quieter typing experience, both switches provide similar results in terms of a mild and polished typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
If you prefer a medium-light typing experience and appreciate a higher-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch is the way to go. It offers a comfortable and approachable feel with a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel with reduced friction. Additionally, the RedBlue switch has a neutral sound profile that appeals to both beginners and advanced users.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a satisfying rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown switch is the better option for you. Its light-medium level of resistance provides a buttery and gentle typing experience, making it effortless and uniform. Like the RedBlue switch, the Silent Brown also features a polished finish for a sleek and refined typing sensation.
In summary, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, choose the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch. For a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, opt for the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, so consider your personal preferences and requirements to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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