TTC Silent Brown vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Silent Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen. The Silent Brown switches are tactile and offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switches are linear and known for their incredibly quiet sound profile. They provide a smooth typing experience, almost akin to a pillowy feel. With their extensive range of categorized characteristics such as being thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished, these switches are a delight for those who prioritize both silence and smoothness. 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
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the TTC Silent Frozen keyboards offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and lighting effects from both keyboards due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the TTC Silent Brown features a nylon material, while the TTC Silent Frozen utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Frozen aligns with the characteristics of the top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound.
As a result, when pressing down on a key, the user will experience the qualities of the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown will provide a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen will contribute to a sharper and more resonant sound. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, retaining the characteristics of the polycarbonate material for both switches.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Brown and TTC Silent Frozen keyboards share a polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a similar sound profile and RGB lighting compatibility. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Silent Brown featuring nylon for a deeper sound, and the Silent Frozen utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper sound. These variations create distinct typing experiences for users, emphasizing either a fuller or a crisper sound, depending on their preference.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Frozen has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke, the Silent Frozen would be the preferable choice. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Silent Brown requires a heavier force of 63.5 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's 43 grams. This translates to a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, if someone desires a lighter switch with an emphasis on extended typing sessions or gaming, the Silent Frozen would be more suitable. However, those seeking a heavier and more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown. Overall, it is essential to consider personal preferences and desired typing or gaming experiences when selecting between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, we can see that the Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0mm distance is considered the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. So, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Silent Frozen with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Silent Brown for a more satisfying depth. Whether you opt for the TTC Silent Brown or the TTC Silent Frozen, both switches offer great options depending on your personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 Silent Brown and Silent Frozen switches have different sound profiles. The Silent Brown is described as having a muted sound, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen is characterized as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It also has a low-pitched tone, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Additionally, like the Silent Brown, the Silent Frozen also has a muted sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Silent Brown is described as having a buttery feel, which implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, it is characterized as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It stands in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Brown is also described as polished, indicating a switch with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Similarly, the Silent Frozen is also described as having a creamy and buttery typing experience. It offers a smooth and seamless sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. It is also feathery, meaning it has an exceptionally light actuation force and requires minimal exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Silent Frozen is also characterized as subtle, providing a light typing feel without being feather-like. Its polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Silent Brown and Silent Frozen switches have different sound profiles, they both offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The differences lie in the sound characteristics, with the Silent Brown having a more muted sound and the Silent Frozen having a thocky, low-pitched sound. However, the feel of both switches is similar, with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Whether you choose the Silent Brown or the Silent Frozen, you can expect a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile, then the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value an extremely quiet sound profile, super smooth keystrokes, and a pillowy feel, then the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch would be more suitable. The Silent Brown provides a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, while the Silent Frozen offers a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences and which qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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