TTC Silent Brown vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Swift offer unique experiences for users. The Silent Brown is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing experience, light-medium resistance, and satisfying rounded tactile bump, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is a linear switch with a deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force, providing a different typing experience for those who prefer a more immersive sound and feel while typing. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the HMX Swift differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, while the Swift's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, whereas the nylon top housing of the Swift is a classic material known for its sound properties.
Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption capabilities. This shared housing material contributes to a consistent typing experience across both the Silent Brown and the Swift, despite their differences in top housing material. The split qualities of the two housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches highlight how each component impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed or released.
Overall, the choice between the Silent Brown and the HMX Swift will ultimately come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and feel. The Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Swift's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent typing experience and sound profile. Ultimately, whether one prefers the crispness of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon will determine which switch is the better fit for their needs.
Weight
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Swift linear switch. The Silent Brown requires 45 grams to actuate a keystroke and 63.5 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Swift only needs 42 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Swift, as it allows for extended typing sessions without much strain. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Silent Brown for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Both switches provide different experiences based on their weight, giving users the option to choose based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. For gamers looking for faster response times, the Silent Brown with a slightly shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Swift with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, which offers a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out with a deeper sound profile, thanks to its full nylon housings, providing a unique clacky and sharp sound when pressed. When it comes to feel, the Silent Brown switch is often described as buttery, mild, and polished, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is characterized as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, providing a silky smoothness with a delicate 42g actuation force. Overall, while the Silent Brown switch tends to offer a more comfortable and traditional typing experience with its muted sound and rounded tactile bump, the HMX Swift switch provides a unique and lighter typing feel with a deeper sound profile, catering to those seeking a different tactile and auditory typing experience. Whether you choose the Silent Brown or the Swift switch, both options will provide you with a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different subjective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a medium-heavy resistance and enjoy a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, easier-to-press switch with a light actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize factors such as typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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