Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is best known for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound, resulting in a unique typing experience. It offers a silky smooth type feel without being overly polished and is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches are known for their comfortable typing experience, with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, these switches have a muted sound profile that many users appreciate. They fall into the categories of 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the TTC Silent Brown switches share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This means that both these switches will provide a clear and resonant sound when typing, especially when releasing the keys.
However, the main difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Semi-Silent Linear incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, while the Silent Brown also utilizes nylon for this component. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. The duller and rounder sound created by the nylon bottom housing of both switches adds a unique auditory experience.
Considering the impact of the different housing materials, the bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the switch that incorporates the nylon bottom housing, whether it's the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear or the TTC Silent Brown, will offer a noticeable difference in the typing experience, providing a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, since the top housing mainly influences the sound when releasing the keys, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches will contribute to creating a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. Hence, despite the variation in the bottom housing, the result is similar in terms of the impact on the sound produced by these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unavailable, whereas the Silent Brown requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Semi-Silent Linear requiring 62 grams and the Silent Brown requiring 63.5 grams.
In terms of weight, the Semi-Silent Linear does not provide information on its actuation force, making it difficult to determine its overall weight. On the other hand, the Silent Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This lighter actuation force could be advantageous for longer periods of typing, such as in work or gaming sessions.
However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Semi-Silent Linear could potentially offer a heavier actuation force, although the exact weight is unknown. Meanwhile, the Silent Brown has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel compared to the Semi-Silent Linear.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is unavailable, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Semi-Silent Linear being potentially heavier due to its unknown actuation force and the Silent Brown being slightly heavier at 63.5 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the TTC Silent Brown switch is slightly longer than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, which is popular among typists. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel to your keystrokes, the TTC Silent Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is best known for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound. The switch produces a subdued sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and it can be used in a variety of settings such as at home or work. The feel of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as silky smooth, providing a gentle typing experience with a mild level of resistance. The switch is snappy, meaning it is super responsive and provides a more alive typing experience. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. The switch has a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The feel of the Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Similar to the Semi-Silent Linear switch, it also provides a gentle typing experience with a mild level of resistance. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the TTC Silent Brown switches offer similar qualities in terms of feel and sound. Both switches provide a gentle typing experience with a mild level of resistance, and they have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches also have a sound profile that is more subdued or muted compared to regular switches. Overall, whether you choose the Semi-Silent Linear or the Silent Brown switch, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with a quieter sound profile and smooth keystrokes.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the TTC Silent Brown switches, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize a switch with a clacky bottom-out sound and a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, then the Semi-Silent Linear is the better choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams offers a smooth and silky type feel without feeling over-polished. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear is described as having a subdued sound profile, which means it produces a dampened sound when pressed, making it more subtle compared to most switches.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a satisfying rounded bump, the TTC Silent Brown switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Silent Brown offers a light-medium level of resistance. Its muted sound profile provides a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular or clacky switches. Moreover, the Silent Brown is also described as having a buttery and polished feel, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a clacky bottom-out sound and a subdued switch with silky smooth typing experience (Semi-Silent Linear), or a muted switch with a satisfying tactile bump and smooth keystroke (TTC Silent Brown). Consider your personal preferences and typing style to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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