Akko Rosewood vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Rosewood and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Rosewood and TTC Silent Brown offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Akko Rosewood switch is renowned for its deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback and a smooth linear feel during typing or gaming. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch that excels in delivering a comfortable typing experience; it features a light to medium resistance and a rounded tactile bump, perfect for typists who enjoy a more pronounced feel with each keystroke while benefiting from a muted sound profile. With qualities that cater to diverse user needs—whether you prefer the immersive acoustics of the Rosewood or the refined feedback of the Silent Brown—each switch has its unique allure. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Rosewood and the TTC Silent Brown switches, a key distinction lies in their top housing composition. The Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound waves efficiently, resulting in a rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This fundamental difference in materials not only affects the sound profile but also the overall typing experience, giving each switch a unique sonic character.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is nylon for both the Akko Rosewood and the TTC Silent Brown. This results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile during the bottoming-out stage when the keys are pressed down. Since both switches use nylon in the bottom housing, they will deliver similar tactile feedback and sound qualities as the key is pressed, creating a common ground in how they feel and sound during typing. The nylon's sound-absorbing properties ensure that both switches provide a certain level of comfort and acoustic warmth, despite the contrasting performances of their top housings.
In terms of aesthetics and compatibility with RGB lighting, the different top housing materials also play a crucial role. The TTC Silent Brown's polycarbonate top, with its translucent quality, enhances the visibility of RGB lighting, making it particularly appealing for gamers and enthusiasts who wish to showcase their keyboard's illumination. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood's nylon top housing is less conducive to lighting effects. This differentiation not only illustrates how each housing material contributes to sound but also highlights the aesthetic and functional implications of their choices. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver deep and full sound during key presses due to their nylon bottom housing, the unique qualities of their top materials define how users will experience sound and visuals differently.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Rosewood features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Rosewood stands at 50 grams while the Silent Brown weighs in at a heavier 63.5 grams. This disparity indicates that the Silent Brown switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its additional resistance both during actuation and when bottoming out. Therefore, for those who favor a lighter touch, the Akko Rosewood is the better choice, whereas users who prefer the heft of a heavier switch may gravitate towards the TTC Silent Brown.
Travel distance
The Akko Rosewood linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can influence the tactile experience of the switch. Gamers, who often prefer quicker response times, might lean towards the Silent Brown for its shorter travel distance, which allows for faster actuation. On the other hand, users who favor a deeper, more substantial feel while typing might find the Rosewood's longer travel distance more satisfying. Overall, the Rosewood offers a more pronounced press, making it ideal for those who enjoy a heartier depth, whereas the Silent Brown caters to gamers seeking responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 Akko Rosewood linear switch is celebrated for its deep, satisfying thocky sound. This auditory quality is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, which helps create a rich acoustic profile that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is designed for a more muted experience. Its sound is softer and quieter than traditional mechanical switches, minimizing the disruptive noise commonly associated with typists. This muted quality makes the Silent Brown switches ideal for environments where quiet operation is prioritized, while the Rosewood’s thocky sound offers a more engaging auditory feedback during typing.
In terms of feel, the Rosewood switches provide a smooth linear experience, promoting effortless key presses without the tactile bumps that characterize some switches. This promotes a seamless typing experience, allowing users to glide from key to key with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches are known for their buttery smoothness, mild resistance, and a satisfying tactile bump that provides feedback without being overly pronounced. Their polished finish contributes to a refined keystroke experience, making each press feel smooth and controlled. While the Rosewood offers a straightforward linear action, the Silent Brown presents a more textured typing sensation that many find satisfying.
In conclusion, both the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Rosewood delivers a pronounced thocky sound that stands out, while the Silent Brown offers a quieter, more subdued auditory experience. On the tactile side, the Rosewood promotes a fluid linear feel, while the Silent Brown provides a cushioned bump with a polished finish. Depending on your typing style and preference for auditory feedback, you may choose one over the other, but each switch can yield a positive typing experience within its own realm.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Rosewood linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter actuation force and enjoy a deep, satisfying sound profile, the Rosewood switch is an excellent option. Its thocky sound and smooth keystrokes can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate the satisfying feedback that comes from a linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more structured typing experience with a notable tactile bump and don't mind a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Silent Brown switch is tailored for you. Its muted sound profile and polished feel make it suitable for quiet environments, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing those around you. In essence, choose the Rosewood switch for smooth and vibrant keypresses, while the Silent Brown is ideal for a balanced and more nuanced tactile typing experience.
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