KTT Rose vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Rose and the TTC Silent Brown stand out as two popular options. The Rose switches are known for their beautiful aesthetics, but there is more to them than meets the eye. With the use of progressive springs, these linear switches offer a uniquely substantial typing experience that is not heavy on the fingers. Typing on them feels akin to bassy raindrops, creating a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches from TTC provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. They offer a satisfying rounded tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy and feedback. However, what sets the Silent Brown switches apart is their muted sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Overall, both switches have their own merits, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and the TTC Silent Brown share similar top housings made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles and aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Rose and the Silent Brown differ in material, with the Rose featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Silent Brown utilizing a similar nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Both the Rose and the Silent Brown benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housings, leading to similar deep and full sound profiles.
Even though the top and bottom housings differ between the Rose and the Silent Brown, the impact of each housing material is felt in different aspects of typing. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the deeper and fuller sound experienced during this motion. Conversely, the sound experienced when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. Both switches benefit from the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a similar sound when letting go of a key.
In summary, the KTT Rose and the TTC Silent Brown have similar polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Despite the housing materials being different between the top and bottom of each switch, the resulting sound profiles are similar. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials complementing each other.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces display some similarities and differences. The actuation force refers to the force needed to trigger a keystroke. Unfortunately, the actuation force for the Rose switch is currently unavailable, while the Silent Brown switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, both switches share the same bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight is an essential factor to contemplate when selecting a switch. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for extended periods without fatigue, the Silent Brown switch with its 45-gram actuation force might be the more suitable option. This lighter actuation force would be ideal for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions.
However, some users appreciate a stronger resistance and push feel, as it provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. These individuals may prefer options with heavier forces. In this case, the KTT Rose switch, although its actuation force is unknown, shares the same medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams as the Silent Brown switch. Therefore, those seeking a heavier keypress feel can expect similar results from both switches in terms of bottoming out.
To summarize, while the actuation force of the Rose switch is unavailable, it shares the medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams with the Silent Brown switch. The Silent Brown switch, on the other hand, boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may be more suitable for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying resistance for typing, with the Silent Brown being lighter and the Rose's actuation force remaining unknown but potentially providing a similar experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Rose has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Brown. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Rose switch, you will feel a 4.0 mm distance traveled, whereas with the Silent Brown switch, the distance traveled will be slightly shorter at 3.8 mm.
In general, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is seen as the most shallow. However, there is an increasing trend towards shorter travel distances in recent times, particularly favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance may be a better choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial key press, in which case the switch with the longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Rose linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Rose linear switch produces a low-pitched tone that is characterized by bass-heavy and mellow notes. This results in a soothing and calming typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile. This means that the switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, reducing the noise typically associated with typing. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, but the Rose offers a lower pitch while the Silent Brown focuses on achieving a muted sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The switch has a gentle and approachable feel, with a moderate level of resistance and a smooth key travel. The use of progressive springs in these switches contributes to a uniquely substantial yet not heavy typing experience. Similarly, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a mild and polished feel. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a middle-ground level of resistance, making them suitable for most users.
In summary, the KTT Rose linear switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Rose switch produces a low-pitched sound with a gentle and polished feel, while the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound profile and a smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy their mechanical keyboard to the fullest. Whether you prefer a lower-pitched sound with a substantial typing experience or a muted sound with a more effortless keystroke, these switches offer distinct options. The choice between them ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a unique typing experience, then the KTT Rose linear switch would be a great choice for you. With progressive springs, these switches offer a substantial yet not heavy feel, giving you a satisfying typing experience akin to hearing bassy raindrops. Additionally, the Rose switch has a low-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. These switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. The Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Moreover, they offer a buttery and mild typing experience, ensuring a smooth and uniform typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Rose and the TTC Silent Brown switches comes down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Whether you value a unique and substantial feel or prioritize comfort and a muted sound, both switches have their own strengths. As a final point, consider your preferences and needs when making a decision, and you'll find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style.
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