TTC Silent Brown vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, two popular options to consider are the TTC Silent Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches. The Silent Brown switches are well-known for their comfortable typing experience, offering a light-medium resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, making them great for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are linear "speed" switches that boast a shorter activation and a long pole stem. This combination results in a great typing feel and a creamy sound signature, adding a touch of uniqueness to your typing experience. While these general pointers provide some insight into both switches, it's important to explore their features in greater detail to determine the best fit for your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers have several similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to incorporate RGB lighting. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when it comes to the top housing of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable distinction. The Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon typing. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers also make use of a nylon bottom housing, which means that users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile. The properties of the bottom housing have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. This means that the choice of housing materials in the Silent Brown and Splash Brothers will result in noticeable differences in sound and tactile feedback during typing or gaming. However, if users are primarily concerned with the overall sound profile and aesthetics provided by the top housing, they can expect similar results from both switches due to their use of polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are notable differences. The Silent Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-heavy push feel, while the specific actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unavailable. However, the bottom out force for the Silent Brown is 63.5 grams, which is heavier compared to the 48 grams of the Splash Brothers, making it lighter in terms of force required for a key press. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Splash Brothers would be a suitable choice, allowing for extended typing sessions without excessive strain. However, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Brown with its heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight, both switches have their advantages, catering to different user preferences and requirements. Overall, while the actuation force and bottom out force may differ between the two switches, users can attain similar results depending on their personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have different travel distances. The Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who want faster response times. If you prioritize quick, responsive keystrokes, you may prefer the Splash Brothers with its slightly shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Silent Brown with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more pronounced keystroke sensation.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is best known for its comfortable typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. It offers a satisfying rounded tactile bump, giving users a pleasant feedback while typing. What sets the Silent Brown apart is its muted sound profile. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch stands out for its "speed" characteristics. With its shorter activation and long pole stem, these switches provide a great typing feel. Users can expect a creamy sound signature from these switches, which adds to the overall pleasant typing experience.
Comparing the sound qualities, the Silent Brown has a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers have a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate sound level suitable for most situations. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Brown offers a buttery, mild, and polished experience. This means users can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke, a gentle typing experience that is approachable, and reduced friction with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers offer a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel. This translates to a gentle resistance, super responsive typing experience, a spring-like or elastic feedback, a light typing feel, and reduced friction with smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Silent Brown and Splash Brothers switches have their own unique qualities, they both provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. The Silent Brown offers a quieter sound profile and a buttery, mild, and polished feel, while the Splash Brothers has a creamy sound signature and a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, as well as a muted sound profile, then the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a great typing feel with shorter activation and a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is the way to go. Both switches have their unique features and qualities, so ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel characteristics mentioned earlier to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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