TTC Silent Brown vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Brown and Dareu Sky POM stand out as excellent options with unique characteristics. The Silent Brown is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing experience, light-medium resistance, and satisfying rounded tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky POM linear switch breaks new ground with its premium POM material construction, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at an accessible price point. Both switches are categorized as 'Buttery', but the Silent Brown is described as 'Mild' and 'Polished' while the Sky POM is labeled 'Low-pitched' and 'Creamy'. When deciding between these switches, consider whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a muted sound (Silent Brown) or a linear switch with a clacky sound and smooth actuation (Sky POM). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and Dareu Sky POM switches offer distinct characteristics that play a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, perfect for those looking for a more vibrant typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper, more muted sound, providing a unique and pleasing typing experience. Both materials excel in their own ways, offering users options based on their sound preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon is excellent at absorbing sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to the overall typing experience provided by both the Silent Brown and Sky POM switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the TTC Silent Brown and Dareu Sky POM switches, they each bring essential qualities to the typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows users to enjoy the unique characteristics of each material when pressing down on the key or releasing it. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, more muted sound of POM, both switches offer a range of options to cater to your typing preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in creating a distinct and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, which requires 40 grams. However, the Silent Brown also has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is not specified. The Silent Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Sky POM may offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer different preferences for users who prefer either a lighter or heavier feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Therefore, there is no difference in the travel distance between the two switches, as they both offer the same 3.8 mm distance. It is worth noting that this uniformity in travel distance can provide a consistent tactile feedback and actuation point for users, regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Silent Brown offering a more subdued typing sound while the Sky POM provides a deeper and mellower auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, both switches share similarities in offering a buttery typing experience. The Silent Brown switch is described as providing a mild and polished feel, with smooth and fluid keystrokes that are effortless and uniform. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM switch boasts a creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery key presses that glide effortlessly. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, making them excellent choices for those seeking a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch both offer exceptional qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent Brown provides a muted sound profile and a mild, polished feel, the Sky POM delivers a low-pitched sound and a creamy, silky typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a softer, quieter typing experience with the Silent Brown or a deeper, mellower sound with the Sky POM, both switches offer premium quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a comfortable and quiet typing experience with a tactile bump, then the TTC Silent Brown switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience without the tactile bump, the Dareu Sky POM switches made of POM material would be more suitable for you. Consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the Silent Brown tactile switch and the Sky POM linear switch will depend on your individual typing preferences and priorities. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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