TTC Bluish White vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and Outemu Black present two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Bluish White is a tactile switch renowned for its satisfying poppy feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory and tactile response while typing. Its sound profile is characterized as buttery and low-pitched, providing a pleasant acoustic ambiance that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black is a linear switch that offers a smooth and consistent keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing environment without tactile bumps or audible clicks. This makes the Black a suitable option for gaming or work settings where discretion is key. While the choice between the lively, tactile feedback of the Bluish White and the sleek, uninterrupted action of the Outemu Black ultimately comes down to personal preference, it’s worthwhile to explore these options in more detail to determine which switch best fits your typing needs. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the Outemu Black switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly influences the sound profile of each switch. The use of polycarbonate is lauded for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches deliver a clear and resonant auditory experience, which is particularly enhanced when paired with RGB lighting due to the translucency of the material. As such, whether one opts for the Bluish White or the Outemu Black, they can expect similar acoustic qualities from the top housing as a result of the polycarbonate construction.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a material recognized for its capacity to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is softer and absorbs sound, resulting in a more muted and rounder auditory experience. This difference in housing materials indicates that while the top part of both switches contributes to a sharp and clear sound upon release, the bottom housing’s nylon composition plays an integral role in shaping the overall tactile experience by dampening the bottom-out sound. Thus, users can expect both switches to offer a balance of auditory characteristics, blending the crispness of the polycarbonate top with the warmth of the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, the combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both the TTC Bluish White and Outemu Black switches results in a cohesive sound profile that captures the strengths of each material. While the top housing contributes to the clear, resonant sounds associated with key releases, the nylon bottom housing enhances the overall typing experience by ensuring deeper, more satisfying feedback when bottoms-out. Consequently, even though the switches may feature different aesthetics and branding, they are designed to provide a harmonious blend of sound and feel that would delight typists and gamers alike.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch, like the Bluish White, will find it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue, while those who appreciate a firmer resistance will likely gravitate towards the heavier Outemu Black. Therefore, if one is looking for a lighter option for efficiency and comfort, the TTC Bluish White would be the better choice, whereas the Outemu Black caters to those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Bluish White measuring 3.5 mm and the Black at 4 mm. This makes the Bluish White the shorter of the two switches, which may be appealing to those who prefer a more responsive keypress, particularly beneficial for quick actions such as gaming. In contrast, the Black's longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a more pronounced tactile experience, which some users might find more satisfying, especially for typing. While the difference in travel distances can influence personal preference, those seeking a faster response in their keystrokes may lean toward the shorter Bluish White switch. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one values a quick actuation or a more robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch generates a distinctly snappy sound profile that is characterized as low-pitched, offering a rich, bass-heavy tone that adds an audible pop to the typing experience. This low-pitched sound can enhance the overall satisfaction while typing, making it feel vibrant and engaging. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a specific sound characteristic noted, which leaves its sound profile comparatively unknown; however, linear switches generally tend to produce a quieter, smoother sound presence since they lack tactile bumps like the Bluish Whites.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White excels with a range of descriptors that highlight its appeal. Users will experience a buttery smooth keystroke that flows effortlessly, combined with a mild tactile feedback that keeps the typing experience approachable and user-friendly. The stepped nature of the switch provides a two-stage feel during key presses, giving a gentle indication of the actuation point without being overly jarring. Additionally, its polished finish ensures a refined and smooth operation, resulting in reduced friction and a satisfying typing sensation. Conversely, the Outemu Black does not have any described feel qualities, making it challenging to compare; linear switches typically offer a smoother uninterrupted keystroke but may lack the tactile feedback that is appreciated by some typists.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White switch stands out with its engaging sound profile and diverse tactile characteristics that provide a rich, satisfying typing experience. While the Outemu Black's lack of defined qualities leaves some uncertainty, it leans towards a more standard linear feel typical of this type of switch. If you prefer a lively auditory feedback with tactile nuances, the Bluish White is likely the better choice, whereas those who favor a simple and smooth typing experience might find the Black agreeable, even if its specific qualities remain undefined. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, understanding your typing preferences and usage scenarios is essential. If you seek a light typing experience with an engaging acoustic profile, the Bluish White is an excellent choice. With its 50-gram actuation force, you'll enjoy the snappy, satisfying sound and feel of each keystroke, making it ideal for long typing sessions or casual gaming where responsiveness is key. Moreover, its buttery and polished characteristics offer a smooth, pleasant experience that's accessible even in shared environments due to its low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier, more deliberate typing feel, the Outemu Black switch may be more suitable for your needs. With a robust 82-gram bottom-out force, this switch provides a firm resistance, which is beneficial for users who value precision and control, especially for tasks requiring more deliberate keystrokes like programming or gaming where you might want to avoid accidental presses. Overall, your choice should align with your typing style and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard, ensuring that you select the switch that enhances your overall experience.
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