TTC Silent Brown vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Silent Brown and Gateron Type S are both popular options to consider. The TTC Silent Brown is praised for its comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a rounded tactile bump, resulting in a satisfying feel while typing. Additionally, the muted sound profile of the Silent Brown switches adds to its appeal. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its 65g bottom-out weight, making it ideal for those who prefer a weightier keystroke. The Type S also offers a sound signature that strikes a balance between neutral and deeper tones, providing a pleasant typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type S switches, we see that the Silent Brown features a polycarbonate top housing while the Type S has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Silent Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon material in the Type S produces a deeper and fuller sound as it is softer and absorbs more sound. This results in a contrast in the sound produced by the two switches, with the Silent Brown offering a crisper sound and the Type S providing a rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Silent Brown and the Gateron Type S switches use nylon material. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches will share a similar sound characteristic when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. This similarity in material for the bottom housing suggests that the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel may be more comparable between the two switches, despite their differences in top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing material in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel of the switch. While the TTC Silent Brown utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing, the Gateron Type S features nylon for both its top and bottom housing. This difference in material composition results in a contrast in sound profiles between the two switches. However, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Silent Brown emphasizing a sharper sound while the Type S provides a deeper and fuller sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that the Silent Brown requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Brown is also lighter at 63.5 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams. Both switches fall into the category of medium-heavy force, providing a balance between responsive typing and a satisfying push feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the TTC Silent Brown, as it requires less force for actuation and bottoming out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier forces of the Gateron Type S to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. The 0.2mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. The shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown may provide a faster response time, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking quick key presses. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Type S may offer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Gateron Type S 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, enhancing the typing experience for those who prefer a more subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch provides a neutral and subdued sound profile, striking a balance between moderate actuation force and a dampened sound when pressed. Both switches offer a more understated sound signature, although the Silent Brown may lean towards a quieter output overall. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke that provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the overall typing feel. However, information regarding the tactile feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not available, but given its weightier 65g bottom-out force, it may provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a heavier typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Brown Tactile switch and the Gateron Type S Linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Silent Brown provides a quieter and more comfortable typing experience with its rounded tactile bump and muted sound profile, the Type S offers a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet subdued sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound output. However, both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between TTC Silent Brown tactile switches and Gateron Type S linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you value a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile, then the Silent Brown may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke, a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, and a switch that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound, then the Gateron Type S could be the ideal option. Consider what features are most important to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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