TTC Silent Brown vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Silent Brown and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB present two attractive yet distinct options for typists and gamers alike. The Silent Brown is celebrated for its smooth and comfortable typing experience, featuring a light to medium level of resistance that culminates in a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Its muted sound profile makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter workspace without sacrificing the tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a unique blend of a deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out and the quiet stealth of topping out, providing a luxurious auditory experience coupled with a sharp tactile bump that many enthusiasts crave. Though both switches excel in creating a tactile feel, they cater to different preferences in sound and typing dynamics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown switches and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, a clear distinction emerges between their top housings. The Silent Brown's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate, known for its rigidity and translucence, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness enhances the clarity of sounds produced when keys are released, making it especially effective for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through and illuminate the switch beautifully. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is crafted from a proprietary plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic." This material is softer than polycarbonate and gives a richer, deeper sound profile, promoting a more muted resonance when keys are released.

The bottom housings of the two switches further illustrate their differing sound characteristics. The TTC Silent Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's capacity to absorb sound effectively. This results in a lower-pitched and rounder sound when the switch is bottomed out. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's bottom housing also features the proprietary Gazzew blend, embodying the same soft characteristics as its top housing. This alignment means that the U4Tx RGB can achieve a similarly rich and profound sound profile due to its ability to dampen sound frequencies effectively, which stands in contrast to the nylon’s classic material qualities.

In summary, while both switches utilize different materials for their top housings, the bottom housings present a case for commonality between the two. The contrasting materials—polycarbonate for the Silent Brown and the proprietary blend for the U4Tx RGB—affect the high-end and low-end sound profiles, respectively. Nevertheless, both switches can yield a similar auditory experience by virtue of their soft bottom housing materials, which are key to shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. This interplay between differing top and bottom materials highlights how the combination of sound characteristics can create distinct acoustic signatures in a keyboard, offering users a diverse range of tactile experiences.

Weight

The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch exhibit some notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom-out forces are relatively close. The Silent Brown has a specified actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter compared to the U4Tx RGB, which unfortunately does not have a defined actuation force. However, the bottom-out force for the Silent Brown is 63.5 grams, while the U4Tx RGB has a slightly higher bottom-out force of 65 grams. This means that, while both switches are categorized as medium-heavy, the Silent Brown offers a lighter feel during actuation, making it potentially more comfortable for longer typing sessions. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB’s heavier bottom-out might provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push. Ultimately, if you are inclined towards a lighter actuation feel, the Silent Brown would be the better choice, whereas the U4Tx RGB would cater to those who appreciate a heavier and more defined feedback upon bottoming out.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, the TTC Silent Brown has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the U4Tx RGB a better choice for those who prefer a more responsive experience in their keystrokes, as shorter distances can facilitate faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a more substantial travel distance, appealing to users who prefer a deeper and more tactile feel when typing or gaming. Thus, users who prioritize rapid input may opt for the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, whereas those who enjoy a more satisfying depth in their keystrokes might choose the TTC Silent Brown.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Brown switches are characterized by a muted sound profile, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. The softer and more subdued acoustics of the Silent Brown minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, which can be particularly beneficial in shared workspaces or home environments where noise can be disruptive. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches produce a deep "thock" upon bottoming out and a stealthy sound when topping out. This blend results in a refined sound profile that offers a satisfying auditory experience—though it may not be as quiet as the Silent Brown. Ultimately, while both switches provide interesting sound qualities, the Silent Brown leans towards a more muted operation, while the U4Tx RGB boasts a richer acoustic engagement.

In terms of feel, the Silent Brown switches deliver a buttery and polished typing experience characterized by their light to medium resistance and rounded tactile bump. This combination provides a seamless, reflexive keystroke that is neither too aggressive nor overly soft, making it approachable for a wide range of typists. The mild qualities ensure that users can enjoy a comfortable experience without overwhelming sensations. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches are noted for their sharp tactile bump, which adds a luxurious touch to the typing experience. While the specific qualities of feel for the U4Tx RGB are not detailed here, the presence of a pronounced tactile bump suggests a more reactive feedback compared to the buttery smoothness of the Silent Brown. Thus, users transitioning from one to the other may feel a notable difference in tactility.

In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Brown and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different user preferences. The Silent Brown excels in its muted sound profile and smooth, polished tactile experience, making it ideal for quiet environments and users who value silence alongside comfort. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB offers a thocky sound with a sharper tactile feedback, providing a more pronounced engagement for those who appreciate auditory and tactile richness in their typing experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on whether one prioritizes a subdued auditory experience with a smooth feel or seeks a vibrant, tactile engagement paired with a deeper sound profile.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you value a quieter typing experience with a comfortable, buttery smooth keystroke and a subdued sound profile, the Silent Brown is an excellent option for you; it’s perfect for shared workspaces or environments where noise can be a concern. The tactile bump of the Silent Brown provides just enough feedback for a pleasant typing experience without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you're seeking something that delivers a more pronounced tactile feedback coupled with a refined yet distinct "thock" sound that isn’t overly loud, the U4Tx RGB would be your go-to choice. This switch provides a luxury typing experience that balances tactile satisfaction with a unique sound profile that stands out without being intrusive. In summary, if you prioritize tranquility during your typing sessions, opt for the Silent Brown, but if you desire a more engaging typing experience with sharper tactile feedback and a deeper sound, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB will suit you well.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more