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TTC Bluish White vs. Outemu Crystal Brown

An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and Outemu Crystal Brown both offer tactile feedback for a more enjoyable typing experience. The Bluish White is ideal for those seeking a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. Its switch characteristics are labeled as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific standout feature but still provides tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, however, 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

45g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

55g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Partial box

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 housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Outemu Crystal Brown have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches meant to be used with RGB lighting. However, the contrast comes with the bottom housings, as the Bluish White features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Crystal Brown also has a nylon bottom housing that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.

Despite the differences in housing materials, the overall sound profile of the TTC Bluish White and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches may be quite similar due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing. The sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile created by the polycarbonate is a common feature in both switches and contributes to a distinct typing experience. However, the impact of the bottom housing material cannot be overlooked, as it plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of both switches adds its own unique characteristics, creating a deeper and fuller sound that sets them apart from switches with different bottom housing materials.

In terms of design and functionality, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the TTC Bluish White and the Outemu Crystal Brown can greatly impact the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate top housings for a clear, resonant sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a deeper, fuller sound creates a balanced and dynamic typing experience. Whether one prefers the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the typing experience, making them an important consideration for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more lightweight option for users who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing users with a medium-light feel that offers a bit more resistance. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Bluish White is lighter overall compared to the Crystal Brown. Users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Crystal Brown, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Bluish White. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch contribute to the typing feel and performance, catering to different preferences among users.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Crystal Brown's 4 mm. Typically, a travel distance of around 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0mm is on the shallower end. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Bluish White a potential choice for them. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Outemu Crystal Brown with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation points, so ultimately the choice between them would depend on personal preference and typing style.

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 Crystal Brown 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 is known for providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. The sound of the Bluish White switch is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. When it comes to feel, the Bluish White switch is characterized as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. This means that users can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with gentle resistance and reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience.

On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the sound and feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. However, based on the details provided for the Bluish White switch, we can infer that the Crystal Brown switch may offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing a satisfying typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a smooth keystroke feel.

In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are likely to offer users a pleasant typing experience with their unique sound and feel characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, as some users may prefer the bass-heavy and mellow tone of the Bluish White switch, while others may appreciate the potentially similar qualities of the Crystal Brown switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you desire a light tactile switch with a satisfyingly poppy typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the Bluish White may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a more subtle typing experience, the Crystal Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that will provide you with the most enjoyable typing experience.

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