TTC Silent Brown vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two notable contenders are the TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam, each catering to distinct typing preferences. The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch impresses with its buttery feel, muted sound profile, and satisfying rounded tactile bump, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet and comfortable typing experience. This switch strikes a balance between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, ideal for both typing and gaming in shared spaces. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch also dubbed the Duck Duck switch, delivers a bouncy and silky smooth feel, characterized by a pleasing clack at the top-out. Its excellent factory lubrication elevates the overall typing experience, making it perfect for users who favor fast-paced gaming or enjoy effortless key presses. While the Silent Brown excels in muted tactile feedback, the Sunset Gleam shines with its resonant and responsive nature. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice of material is instrumental in producing a distinctive sound profile characterized by sharpness, high-pitched clarity, and resonance. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, its contributions to the auditory experience are marked, ensuring that both switches deliver a crisp and clear sound when the keys are engaged. This material's translucency also enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, making both switches visually striking by allowing light to filter through their clear housings, thus creating an engaging aesthetic while typing.
Contrastingly, the bottom housing of both switches is composed of nylon, another shared feature. Nylon is respected in the keyboard community for its sound dampening qualities, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. The inherent softness of nylon contributes to a more muted auditory experience, absorbing some of the sound that would otherwise resonate in harder plastics. This specific property allows for a rounder and more pleasant sound when the keys bottom out. As both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housing, they will exhibit similar characteristics in terms of sound when pressed down, ensuring a consistent overall acoustic experience despite the different top housings.
These similarities in material selection across both the top and bottom housings lead to a well-balanced execution of sound profiles in both the TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam. While the polycarbonate top creates a bright and lively sound when keys are released, the nylon bottom ensures a plush, softer bottom-out feel. This combined approach results in a harmonious typing experience that integrates the unique qualities of each material. Thus, despite any nuanced differences that may arise from the interplay of each housing, users can anticipate similar auditory results and aesthetic advantages from both switches due to their parallel construction choices.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch to the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, a notable distinction can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Brown features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Sunset Gleam is easier to press down and bottom out, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience during extended sessions. The Silent Brown, on the other hand, offers a more substantial feel with its heavier forces, which may cater to those who enjoy a stronger push while typing. Overall, if you prioritize a lighter touch for long hours at work or gaming, the HMX Sunset Gleam is the better option, while the TTC Silent Brown will appeal to those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find that the Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sunset Gleam measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the option for those who prefer a more responsive feel, as it offers a shorter travel distance which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Silent Brown provides a longer travel distance, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial key press, offering a "hearty depth" that might feel more satisfying for general typing or gaming. Therefore, individuals who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the Sunset Gleam, whereas those who prefer a deeper keystroke could find the Silent Brown more to their liking.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, a stark contrast emerges. The Silent Brown is characterized by its muted sound, which minimizes the traditional noise associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more subdued typing experience. This can be particularly appealing in quiet environments where noise reduction is key. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam boasts a resonant sound that delivers a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp auditory experience, providing an engaging and immersive feedback while typing. This difference makes the Silent Brown more suitable for users who prefer discretion, whereas the Sunset Gleam caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback.
In terms of tactile feel, the Silent Brown offers a buttery and polished experience. Its light-medium resistance coupled with the rounded tactile bump ensures a comfortable and effortless typing sensation, which is enhanced by its smooth finish that reduces friction during key presses. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam also features a polished design for a refined typing experience, but with additional characteristics such as bounciness and silkiness. These qualities contribute to a spring-like feedback that invigorates each keystroke, providing a lively and engaging typing feel. While both switches offer a polished feel, the Sunset Gleam adds an element of responsiveness that sets it apart.
In summary, for those seeking a quiet, tactile experience, the TTC Silent Brown is an excellent choice due to its muted sound and smooth, comfortable bump. On the other hand, if you prefer a more resonant sound and a lively, bouncy feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam will likely be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your priorities regarding sound and touch, as each offers unique advantages that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch should be guided by your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a more robust typing experience with a tactile bump that offers both resistance and comfort, especially in a quieter environment, the Silent Brown is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force and muted sound profile make it ideal for longer typing sessions where feedback is crucial, such as programming, writing, or intensive office tasks. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter and more fluid experience with an engaging auditory feedback, the HMX Sunset Gleam is the way to go. With its light actuation force and resonant sound profile, it shines for gaming and fast-paced typing, where speed and smoothness are paramount. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you value tactile feedback and noise reduction or prioritize a smooth, responsive feel with a lively sound.
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