Everglide Oreo vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Everglide Oreo and the TTC Silent Brown, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Everglide Oreo switches are known for their crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned feeling when bottoming out. They offer a medium light tactility, striking a perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. These switches also produce a subtle, mellow sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, complemented by a rounded tactile bump that enhances the typing sensation. One standout feature of the Silent Brown switches is their muted sound profile, which can be appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Oreo and the TTC Silent Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize the auditory experience of typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the switch.
However, when comparing the bottom housings, we see a notable difference between the two switches. The Oreo utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. This stiffness of polycarbonate is maintained, resulting in a continuation of the sharp, high-pitched sound produced by the top housing. Conversely, the Silent Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, which creates a distinctly different sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches with this material.
It's important to note that while both switches may have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by these materials are split. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the Everglide Oreo and the TTC Silent Brown have contrasting materials for their bottom housings, they both provide an enhanced typing experience through the combination of top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Oreo and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches, there are a few key differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, both switches require 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar level of sensitivity and responsiveness when typing or gaming with either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two. The Everglide Oreo has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. This lighter force can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a more effortless typing experience or need to use the keyboard for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This heavier force provides a more substantial push feel, resulting in a firmer and potentially satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback.
While the actuation forces are the same for both switches, the difference in bottom out force allows users to choose the level of resistance that suits their typing style and preferences. Those who value a lighter typing experience may opt for the Everglide Oreo, while individuals seeking a more substantial and forceful keystroke may find the TTC Silent Brown more suitable.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces for increased comfort and reduced fatigue, while others may appreciate the heavier forces for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they have slight differences. The Oreo has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This indicates that the Oreo switch offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Silent Brown switch. However, it is important to note that both options fall within a similar range, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Silent Brown with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Oreo with its slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a subtle and mellow sound profile. It doesn't have any distinct descriptors like being chirpy or clacky. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches aim to provide a quieter experience, but with different characteristics. If you prefer a more subdued sound, the Silent Brown would be a good option, while the Oreo provides a softer sound without any specific quirks.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as accented and stepped. It falls in the medium-tactility range, offering a noticeable but not overwhelming bump. It has a distinct pre-travel and post-travel, adding to its unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing feel that most users would find approachable. The polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback, but with different characteristics. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump, the Oreo would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and more uniform keystroke, the Silent Brown would be a better fit.
In conclusion, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch each have their own subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Oreo offers a subtle and mellow sound with an accented and stepped feel, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a muted sound profile with a buttery, mild, and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide comfort and satisfaction, although they do so in slightly different ways. If you enjoy the sound and feel of one switch, you can expect similar results from the other switch, even though the specific characteristics may differ.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a keyboard switch that offers a satisfying keystroke with a comfortable typing experience, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is a great choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The Oreo also provides a subtle, mellow sound profile, making it a great option if you prefer a quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the Oreo is described as accented and stepped, offering a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and fluid typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a more pronounced tactile bump. Additionally, the Silent Brown has a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. It is also described as buttery, mild, and polished, offering a comfortable and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Oreo and the TTC Silent Brown switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, typing force, and sound profile.
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