KTT Mint vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are many factors to consider. Two popular options, the KTT Mint and the TTC Silent Brown, offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mint is celebrated for its smooth linear switch, providing a satisfyingly poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. With a light and fleeting typing feel, it falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches of TTC are renowned for their comfortable typing experience, offering a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, falling under the categories of 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your individual preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Mint Linear

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$2.91 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the TTC Silent Brown, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup. Thus, users can expect similar sound characteristics from the top housings of both the KTT Mint and the TTC Silent Brown.

In terms of bottom housing, both switches feature a nylon construction. Nylon is a well-known and widely used housing material that offers its own set of sound qualities. The nylon bottom housing of both the Mint and the Silent Brown elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon's relatively softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced is duller and rounder. Consequently, users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using the bottom housing of both switches.

It is important to note that when a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housings, the characteristics of each housing material will be divided between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Meanwhile, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. Thus, while the specific materials used may differ between the KTT Mint and the TTC Silent Brown, users can still expect to experience these distinct sound qualities attributed to the top and bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction. The KTT Mint linear switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls under the medium-light category. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This discrepancy means that the Silent Brown switch requires more force to fully press down compared to the Mint switch.

Weight can have varying importance depending on user preferences and usage scenarios. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Mint linear switch would be suitable as it allows for extended typing sessions and is ideal for work or long gaming periods. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown tactile switch, which provides a stronger push feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Brown has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Mint's 4.0 mm. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown. This shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and improved reaction times during gameplay. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press may opt for the Mint with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile. This means that the Mint switch produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile. This means that the Silent Brown switch produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Overall, both switches offer pleasant and less noisy typing experiences.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. With its mild characteristics, the Mint switch offers a gentle and comfortable typing feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Mint switch is said to have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its mild and polished feel. This means that the Silent Brown switch provides a more gentle and refined typing experience, allowing for smooth and fluid keystrokes. Both switches offer a pleasant and effortless typing sensation, making them suitable for a variety of users.

Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Mint linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Mint switch produces a low-pitched sound with a light and fleeting typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch provides a muted sound profile with a comfortable typing experience and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Despite these differences, both switches offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference regarding sound and the desire for a linear or tactile switch. However, it's important to note that while the qualities may vary slightly, users can expect similar satisfactory results in terms of both sound and feel from both switches.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mint linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a light and fleeting feel, then the Mint switch may be the better choice for you. The Mint switch's low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with its mild and polished feel, make it a great option for those seeking a more approachable and refined typing experience.

On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown switch might be more suitable for you. With its light-medium level of resistance and buttery and polished feel, the Silent Brown switch delivers a seamless and effortless typing sensation.

Ultimately, both switches have their unique features and advantages. The Mint switch excels in its smooth linear action and satisfying thockiness, while the Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable tactile bump and a quieter sound profile. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more