Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between two distinct categories: linear and tactile. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and thocky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a fluid typing experience without audible feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown embodies a tactile design, offering a comfortable typing experience highlighted by a light to medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded bump. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate the subtle feedback without the noise, thanks to its muted sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you favor the quiet, uninterrupted glide of the Smoothie or the tactile sensation of the Silent Brown. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
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
3.70 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the TTC Silent Brown, it is evident that each switch utilizes different materials for their respective top housings, which greatly influences their acoustic properties. The Sea Salt Smoothie features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for generating sharper and higher-pitched sounds due to its stiffer composition. Consequently, when it comes to the sound output during key releases, the Sea Salt Smoothie will offer a smooth, subdued auditory experience, while the Silent Brown will provide a more vibrant and resonant sound.
Furthermore, the differences extend to the bottom housing materials. The Sea Salt Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing, contributing to an overall cohesive acoustic signature that is pleasurable and unique, albeit on the muted side. On the other hand, the Silent Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally celebrated for producing a fuller, deeper sound. The nylon's softer nature absorbs sound more effectively than POM, resulting in a distinct, rounder auditory experience when the key bottoms out. This means that while both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, their construction will lead to noticeable differences in sound when pressed down and released.
Ultimately, both switches showcase how varying housing materials impact both sound profiles and tactile feedback. By blending POM in the Sea Salt Smoothie with nylon in the Silent Brown for the lower housing, the Sea Salt Smoothie achieves a particular sound equality that may feel cohesive in a muted way. In contrast, the Silent Brown's combination of harsher polycarbonate and softer nylon creates a more dynamic range that caters to those preferring a crisper keystroke. For users who are indifferent to these sound nuances and seek a balanced performance, selecting either option can yield satisfying results, yet each brings its unique flavor to the keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find intriguing differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sea Salt Smoothie has an actuation force of 48 grams, which makes it slightly heavier than the Silent Brown's actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter switch for extended periods might find the Silent Brown more comfortable for long typing sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie is unknown, while the Silent Brown has a defined medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This suggests that the Silent Brown provides a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down. In summary, for users who favor a lighter touch, the TTC Silent Brown is the better choice, while those who might enjoy a bit of extra resistance at the bottom could prefer the Silent Brown's heavier bottom out feel, despite the unknown force of the Sea Salt Smoothie.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Brown measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This means that the Sea Salt Smoothie is the shorter option, making it potentially more responsive and suitable for those who prioritize quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's longer travel distance of 3.8 mm offers a deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, if you seek a snappier response, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be the better choice, whereas the Silent Brown might appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is known for its thocky sound profile, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback while typing and has an overall pleasing resonance that can enhance the typing experience. This contrasts with the TTC Silent Brown, which features a muted sound profile. The muted nature of the Silent Brown switches results in a softer, quieter experience that minimizes the typical clicking and clacking noises associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches can yield enjoyable sound profiles, but the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a more pronounced acoustic presence compared to the gentler auditory signature of the Silent Browns.
When we examine the feel of these switches, the Sea Salt Smoothie is characterized by a smoothness that allows for fluid keystrokes, though specific details on its tactile feedback are not provided. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches boast several commendable qualities: they offer a buttery feel that ensures a seamless typing experience while also being mild and approachable, making them suitable for users looking for a gentle touch. Additionally, the tactile bump on the Silent Browns is designed for a satisfying response without being overly abrupt, which is complemented by a polished sensation that enhances the smoothness of the keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the TTC Silent Brown switches cater to differing preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Sea Salt Smoothie leans towards a thocky acoustic richness paired with a smooth typing experience, while the Silent Brown offers a muted sound with a tactile bump that ensures comfort and refinement in keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, whether one values pronounced sound or a softer, more subtle typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth, thocky sound profile that elevates your typing experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie switch is the way to go. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate smoothness and want a switch that feels effortlessly comfortable during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you lean towards a switch that offers a tactile bump with a muted sound, the Silent Brown is a fantastic option. Its medium-heavy resistance provides a satisfying feedback without being overly harsh, making it suitable for environments where noise minimization is appreciated, such as shared workspaces. Overall, consider your typing style, the noise level of your surroundings, and whether you prefer the smoothness of a linear switch or the tactile feedback offered by a tactile switch to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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