TTC Brother vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect clicky switches for your mechanical keyboard, the TTC Brother and the Outemu Dustproof Blue present compelling options for enthusiasts and everyday users alike. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight structure, featuring an effortless actuation force of just 37g, which offers a pleasant tactile experience that's easy on the fingers. Its distinctive crunchy sound signature captures the attention of clicky switch lovers, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that complements its pronounced tactile bump. On the other hand, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue may lack a distinctive reputation, it is often recognized for its durability, designed to withstand dust and debris, thus enhancing its longevity in active environments. Both switches excel in delivering the delightful clicky feel that many users prefer, with the Brother being noted for its crisp feedback while the Dustproof Blue aims to provide practical reliability. 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Brother and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches exhibit several similarities that result in comparable acoustic profiles, particularly in their top housings. Both switches feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings, which is a notable choice in the mechanical keyboard community due to its stiffness and translucency. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the clear design enhances their compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant light diffusion and aesthetic appeal. Thus, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of sound clarity and visual aesthetics when utilizing either switch, making them suitable for those who prioritize both sound quality and illumination in their mechanical keyboards.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches employ nylon, which introduces a different auditory quality. Nylon, being a softer plastic than polycarbonate, lends a deeper and fuller sound profile to the typing experience. This divergence is significant because the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall sound when bottoming out on the key switch. In both the TTC Brother and Outemu Dustproof Blue, the nylon construction ensures a sound that is more muted and rounded, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top. Therefore, while the top housings contribute to a sharp and resonant sound profile, the nylon bottoms create a softer and more subdued acoustic environment.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both switches results in a unique balance of auditory experiences. Users of either the TTC Brother or Outemu Dustproof Blue can expect to enjoy the sharpness and resonance of polycarbonate when pressing down keys and a deeper, more rounded sound upon release, thanks to the nylon material on the bottom. This duality allows users to appreciate a broad spectrum of sound characteristics while typing, thus making both switches appealing for those who value a mix of clarity and warmth in their key switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences for tactile feedback. The TTC Brother switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it the lighter option, which is advantageous for users who may type for extended periods or require less resistance during use. However, the Brother switch does not provide a bottom out force measurement, leaving that aspect unknown. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. This heavier force can provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer keypress. Overall, users looking for a lighter touch should lean towards the TTC Brother switch, while those desiring a stronger push feel will likely appreciate the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch's heavier acts.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Dustproof Blue may provide a more traditional feel with its greater depth, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or gaming due to the feedback it offers. In contrast, the Brother switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer quicker actuation and a more responsive experience, which is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, individuals who appreciate a deeper keypress may prefer the Outemu Dustproof Blue for its elongated travel, whereas those wanting rapid key engagement might opt for the TTC Brother.
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 Dustproof Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch produces a notably crunchy auditory experience that catapults the user into the joy of tactile typing. This sound, akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, is clear and crisp, providing affirmation with each keystroke that rhythmic click enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch does not have a specified sound characteristic available, leaving a gap in its auditory profile. While both switches' sounds can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, the Brother's crisp click provides a more defined auditory feedback, making it likely more appealing for those prioritizing sound.
Regarding the feel, the TTC Brother is distinguished by its easy-to-press design, requiring a gentle actuation force of just 37g. This lightweight nature ensures that typing is not only convenient but also reduces finger fatigue during prolonged usage. The Brother's stepped tactile bump adds another layer of engagement, providing a distinct yet mild sensation during keypresses that makes typing feel more responsive. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch remains unspecified. As a result, the Brother's tactile characteristics present a clearer advantage for users seeking a satisfying typing touch.
In summary, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out with its crunchy sound and a comfortable, low-impact feel that enhances the typing experience. While it excels in both auditory and tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Blue’s unspecified qualities leave some ambiguity in comparison. If you prioritize sound and feel, the Brother switch will consistently deliver a more fulfilling typing journey, whereas the Dustproof Blue might not provide clear information for potential users.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage needs. If you appreciate a lightweight key feel and enjoy a tactile, precise clicky feedback, the TTC Brother is your best choice. Its low actuation force of just 37g allows you to type effortlessly, making it ideal for long typing sessions or when you're looking to minimize finger fatigue. The Brother’s distinct, crunchy sound adds a satisfying auditory element that enhances the typing experience, making it a perfect option for those who value both performance and feedback in their switch choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust, medium-heavy feel and find value in a consistent resistance while typing, the Outemu Dustproof Blue may be more suitable for you. Its 65g bottom-out force provides a solid and deliberate keystroke, which can be reassuring for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, consider your typing style and whether you favor a lighter, more effortless feel or a heavier, grounded response when choosing between these two excellent clicky switches.
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