TTC Silent Brown vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type A presents an interesting contrast. The Silent Brown is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing experience, light-medium resistance, and satisfying tactile bump. Its muted sound profile makes it a popular choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is a linear switch that offers a unique blend of features from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," including innovative travel distances and factory lubing techniques. This switch is characterized by a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subdued typing sound. While these general descriptions offer some insight into each switch's qualities, diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type A have top housings made of different materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Type A's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material of the Silent Brown's top housing is especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the nylon material of the Type A's top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type A are both made of nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a rounder sound for both switches. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches leads to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the nylon material enhancing the overall typing experience by providing a more subdued and muted sound compared to other housing materials.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type A result in contrasting sound profiles while typing. The Silent Brown's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a sharp and clear sound when pressing down on the keys, while the Type A's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound. These differences showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a unique sound profile based on the materials used in its construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, one can see that there are notable differences. The Silent Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke on the Silent Brown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Brown is heavier at 63.5 grams while the Type A is lighter at 55 grams. This means that while the Silent Brown requires more force to fully press down, the Type A provides a lighter touch overall. These differences in weight make the Silent Brown more suitable for those looking for a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Type A would be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, the Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Type A has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Type A the longer travel distance of the two switches. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but for some users, it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. Gamers, for example, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown for quicker response times, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Type A for a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch provides a subdued sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both switches aim for a quieter typing experience, with the Silent Brown focusing on a softer sound and the Type A offering a more subtle and dampened sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its buttery and mild typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke with a light-medium level of resistance. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available at this time. However, based on the characteristics of the Silent Brown switch, users can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing experience from the Type A as well, especially if seeking a medium-weight switch.
In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Brown excels in providing a comfortable typing experience with a muted sound profile and buttery feel, while the Type A focuses on a subdued sound signature and potentially a similar level of comfort in typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for tactile feedback and sound level. With either switch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets their individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance and a rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-weight feel, a deeper sound profile, and a compromise between actuation force and sound level, the Gateron Type A could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing habits and preferences.
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