KTT Pine vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Pine, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. Right off the bat, the KTT Pine is best known for its smooth and effortless typing experience. With a medium-heavy weight and a polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction for buttery smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. One standout feature of these switches is their muted sound profile, making them a great option for 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 perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and TTC Silent Brown both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, since polycarbonate is translucent, it is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
While the top housing of both switches is made of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials differ. The Pine features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements its overall sound profile. Using polycarbonate at the bottom creates a sharper and more resonant sound, contributing to an enhanced typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a different typing experience. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. It absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Therefore, users who prefer a softer and deeper sound when typing may find the TTC Silent Brown with its nylon bottom housing more appealing.
It is worth noting that the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down. This means that even if the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of each housing material will still contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, regardless of the specific materials used in the top and bottom housing, both the KTT Pine and TTC Silent Brown will provide a satisfying typing experience that is influenced by the characteristics of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find that they have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that both switches will require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a difference. The Pine has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Silent Brown has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier at medium-heavy.
Considering weight in switches is important for different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find it more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. This lighter actuation force allows for easier and quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may enjoy the resistance and tactile feedback that comes with a heavier bottom out force.
In conclusion, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Pine has a lighter bottom out force compared to the Silent Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In terms of travel distance, the KTT Pine linear switch has a distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter distance of 3.8 mm. The Pine switch's 4.0 mm travel distance falls within the range of the more traditional distances, offering a familiar and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's 3.8 mm distance leans towards the shallower end, which is becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Opting for the Pine switch would provide a more substantial and deep keystroke, which some individuals might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. However, if a shorter travel distance suits your needs and allows for faster keystrokes, the Silent Brown would be the better choice. Overall, the decision between the KTT Pine and TTC Silent Brown switches will depend on personal preferences regarding travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched qualities. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a muted sound profile. With these switches, you can expect a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Pine and TTC Silent Brown switches are described as buttery. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the KTT Pine switch is also described as creamy, offering a silky sensation akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. The TTC Silent Brown switch, on the other hand, is further described as mild and polished. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, while a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Pine linear switch is best known for its medium-heavy weight, buttery smoothness, and effortless typing experience. It has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. In terms of feel, it offers a creamy and buttery typing sensation. Conversely, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. It has a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter tones. In terms of feel, it provides a buttery and mild typing experience, with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
If you're looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with either a bassy sound or a muted sound, both the KTT Pine and TTC Silent Brown switches offer similar qualities in terms of feel. However, the sound profile and some additional descriptors may differ slightly. Ultimately, the optimal choice depends on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Silent Brown with its 63.5 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Pine with its 58 grams would be a better option.
In terms of sound, the Pine offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a more muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to the feel, both switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, the Pine is also described as creamy, offering a silky sensation that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The Silent Brown, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished, providing a more gentle and refined typing experience.
Consider these factors and your personal preferences when choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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