TTC Silent Brown vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type L stand out as popular choices, each offering unique features and benefits. The Silent Brown is favored for its comfortable typing experience, light-medium resistance, and satisfying tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron is known for its lightweight design, requiring only 45g of force to bottom out, and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Silent Brown is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Type L falls into the categories of 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type L switches differ in their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Silent Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness, while the Gateron Type L utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound because of its softer nature. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual flair to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type L is a more traditional choice that emphasizes sound quality over visual effects.
The bottom housings of both switches share the same nylon material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's softer nature helps absorb sound, resulting in a more subdued and rounded sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both the Silent Brown and Type L switches will deliver a consistent feel and sound when typing. However, the differences in their top housing materials will still lead to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
Overall, while both the TTC Silent Brown and Gateron Type L switches feature nylon bottom housings for a similar typing experience, their choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown offers a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those who prefer a brighter typing experience with the option for RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type L produces a deeper and fuller sound that caters to a more classic typing feel focused on sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and visual appeal.
Weight
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is relatively light. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Gateron Type L, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Silent Brown offers a slightly shorter distance for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The Type L, on the other hand, provides a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 L 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 switch is known for its muted sound profile, which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature, veering towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches provide a quieter typing experience compared to traditional clicky switches, making them suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the TTC Silent Brown switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a comfortable typing sensation with a mild level of tactility, making it approachable for most users. The Gateron Type L switch, on the other hand, is known for its feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes extended typing sessions more comfortable. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different levels of resistance and feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Silent Brown excels in providing a muted sound profile and a buttery typing experience, while the Type L stands out for its feathery feel and subdued sound signature. Depending on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a lighter actuation force, both switches offer desirable attributes for those seeking a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person may be the best way to determine which one aligns best with your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a comfortable and rounded tactile bump with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silent Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type L switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you prioritize typing comfort and tactile feedback or prefer a smoother, lighter keypress experience. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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