TTC Brother vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch offer distinct experiences for users. The TTC Brother stands out as a top favorite in the market, known for its lightweight nature with a breezy actuation of just 37g. It provides a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that will appeal to clicky switch enthusiasts, along with a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch may not have a specific standout feature like the Brother, but it offers a smooth and consistent keystroke experience. While the Brother is categorized as crunchy, easy to press, and stepped, the Cream Pink does not fall into any specific category. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Cream Pink, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. The difference will likely come down to the specific design and construction of each switch, which may result in slight variations in sound and feel when typing.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Brother is made of polycarbonate, while the Cream Pink features a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brother creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Cream Pink's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles is a key difference between the two switches and could cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Brother and the Outemu Cream Pink will likely come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound, the different top housings of polycarbonate and nylon will provide varying sound profiles that may appeal to different users. Ultimately, trying out both switches and considering how each housing material impacts sound and feel will help in deciding which switch is the best fit for individual preferences.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, which has a higher actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Brother switch does not have an available measurement, while the Cream Pink switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Brother switch more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cream Pink switch for its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cream Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The Brother switch is ideal for those who prefer a slightly quicker key press, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cream Pink switch offers a slightly deeper key press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The Outemu Cream Pink 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch sets itself apart with its signature crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, providing a satisfying and clear auditory experience for enthusiasts of clicky switches. On the other hand, the sound quality of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Brother boasts an easy-to-press nature with a light actuation force of just 37g, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Additionally, its tactile bump strikes a perfect balance between distinct feedback and a comfortable keystroke. Conversely, information about the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch is not available, making it challenging to compare directly. The feel of a switch can greatly impact typing comfort and speed, so it's essential to consider this aspect when choosing a switch.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in both sound and feel, providing a crunchy auditory feedback and an easy-to-press typing experience with a tactile bump that enhances keystrokes. Meanwhile, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch lacks documented information on sound and feel, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a satisfying clicky sound, the TTC Brother switch may be the ideal choice. However, for individuals seeking a linear switch with unknown characteristics, further research or testing may be necessary to determine its suitability for your typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a clicky switch that offers a lightweight actuation and a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. It provides a tactile experience that's both responsive and enjoyable, making it a top choice for those who love that distinct clicky feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch might be more up your alley. It offers a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump, perfect for those who prioritize a consistent typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.