TTC Silent Brown vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Brown and Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct typing experiences. The TTC Silent Brown is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing feel, light-medium resistance, and satisfying tactile bump. The switches have a muted sound profile and are often described as 'buttery' and 'polished.' On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch with a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight. These switches are praised for their balance between comfort and precision, making them popular among enthusiasts and professionals. While the Silent Brown is favored for its tactile feedback, the Sky V3 stands out for its smooth linear action. 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
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that prioritize a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, while they share this commonality, the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. This shows the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in influencing the overall sound experience of a switch.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Silent Brown and the Sky V3 benefit from polycarbonate top housings due to their translucent properties, making them ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. However, when it comes to sound quality, the differences in their bottom housing materials become apparent. The Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, while the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and rounder sound profile. This highlights how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, but the variation in their nylon bottom housings provides different tactile and acoustic experiences. Whether you prefer a crisper and sharper sound or a deeper and fuller tone, understanding the influence of housing materials on switch performance is crucial in making an informed decision between these two options.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Brown is also heavier at 63.5 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. In terms of weight, the Silent Brown offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Silent Brown offering a heavier typing experience and the Sky V3 providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see that the Silent Brown has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Sky V3's 4 mm travel distance. Typically, a 0.2 mm difference may not be noticeable to some users, but for others, it can make a significant impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Silent Brown with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may opt for the Sky V3 with its slightly longer travel distance. In this case, the Silent Brown would be considered the shorter option, while the Sky V3 would be the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
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 TTC Silent Brown tactile switches are known for their muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches have a more neutral and subdued sound, offering a dampened sound when pressed. Both switches cater to individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience, with the Silent Brown being slightly more muffled in comparison to the Sky V3. However, it's essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Brown switches are often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They offer a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying tactile bump, making typing comfortable and enjoyable. The Dareu Sky V3 switches, on the other hand, are also characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Both switches present a polished and refined feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing sessions. Ultimately, the feel of these switches will come down to personal preference, with both options offering a pleasant and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches provide excellent options for individuals seeking a more subdued and comfortable typing experience. While the Silent Brown offers a more muted sound profile and a buttery feel, the Sky V3 presents a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience that caters to your specific needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance of comfort and precision, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and muted sound, the Silent Brown is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and a switch that caters to diverse typing preferences, the Sky V3 is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a more subdued sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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