KTT Orange vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular switches that offer different typing experiences are the KTT Orange and the TTC Silent Brown. The KTT Orange switches are linear switches, known for their bouncy feel and low-pitched sound profile. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a slick and frictionless typing experience. Additionally, the factory-lubing ensures a refined and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches are tactile switches, offering a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. These switches also boast a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, making it crucial to dive deeper into their specifics to determine which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and TTC Silent Brown both make use of polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Therefore, if you prefer a switch that produces a distinct and vibrant sound, both the KTT Orange and TTC Silent Brown with their polycarbonate top housing would be suitable choices.
While the top housing is consistent in both the KTT Orange and TTC Silent Brown, their bottom housing material differs. The Orange utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to the top housing. This ensures that the switch maintains a consistent sound profile throughout, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the Silent Brown makes use of a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, the Silent Brown switch would provide a rounder and duller sound when bottoming out, creating a more subdued overall typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Orange and TTC Silent Brown share the same polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, high pitch, and clarity. However, their bottom housing materials differ, with the Orange employing polycarbonate and the Silent Brown using nylon. This discrepancy leads to variations in the typing experience, with the Orange maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout, while the Silent Brown offers a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound. Whether you prefer a more vibrant and distinctive typing sound or a softer and more subdued sound, both switches provide unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force for the Orange switch is slightly lighter at 46 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, but both fall into the medium-light range. In terms of bottom out force, the Orange switch requires 53 grams of force, while the Silent Brown switch is heavier at 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Orange switch with its slightly lighter actuation force and bottom out force would be the more suitable option. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer the significant push, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be a better choice. Its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger tactile feedback, enhancing the typing experience.
Though the actuation forces of both switches are quite similar, the difference in bottom out force highlights the distinction in typing feedback. While the actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, the bottom out force indicates the pressure needed to fully depress the key. In terms of weight, the KTT Orange switch is lighter overall, resulting in a more effortless and prolonged typing experience. Meanwhile, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a heavier and more substantial feel, which may be preferred by users looking for a stronger and more pronounced typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it becomes evident that they have different distances. The Orange has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly longer distance of 3.8 mm. The Orange switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers or individuals seeking a faster response time. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper press and a more substantial feel. Both options cater to different preferences, and whichever one you choose will provide a unique typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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.
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 KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched profile, which means it produces a bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch has a muted sound profile, resulting in a quieter and softer typing experience compared to regular switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Both switches provide different sound characteristics, so the choice between them would depend on individual preference and the desired level of noise.
When it comes to the feel, the KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy and frictionless qualities. The keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, offering a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switch provides an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch also has a mild characteristic, providing a gentle typing experience that lies in a safe, middle-ground zone. Thanks to its polished finish and factory lubing, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel. Again, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired feel while typing.
In summary, the KTT Orange and TTC Silent Brown switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange switch has a low-pitched sound with a bouncy and frictionless feel, while the Silent Brown switch offers a muted sound with a buttery, mild, and polished feel. The choice between these switches would depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience. Additionally, it's worth noting that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Considering these factors, it is possible to achieve similar results in sound and feel, depending on the combination of switches and other components chosen by the newcomer.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the KTT Orange linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
If you prioritize a lighter key feel, the Orange switch may be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it falls into the medium-light category. Additionally, the Orange switch is renowned for its bouncy and frictionless feel, providing a spring-like feedback and an extremely smooth typing experience. Its factory-lubing ensures refined key travel and minimizes friction, maximizing overall smoothness.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier key feel, the Silent Brown switch, with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, may be more suitable for you. It offers a light-medium level of resistance, providing a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump. The Silent Brown switch is also praised for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter noise compared to regular mechanical switches.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference. If you value a lighter key feel and prioritize a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange linear switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier key feel and enjoy a comfortable, rounded tactile bump with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the better choice for you. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound profile to make the decision that suits you best.
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