TTC Brother vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The TTC Brother is praised for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a top favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean is known for its silent operation, providing a quiet typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. While the Brother offers a breezy actuation of just 37g and a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance, the Silent Ocean remains virtually silent during use. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Silent Ocean, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, providing clear and resonant sound profiles that are aesthetically pleasing.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The TTC Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing with similar sound-enhancing qualities. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing provides a unique tactile experience that complements the crisp sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of overall performance, the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Silent Ocean play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housing of each switch imparts a distinct sound profile. The combination of materials in each switch ensures a balanced typing experience, with the top and bottom housings working together to create a harmonious tactile feeling and sound signature. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The Brother switch has no specified bottom out force, while the Silent Ocean switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Brother switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the heavier Silent Ocean switch. In terms of actuation force, the Brother clicky switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Ocean linear switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force. Both switches provide different typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. The Brother clicky switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean linear switch provides a deeper press with its longer travel distance, offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more tactile feel in your keyboard switches.
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 Silent Ocean 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 is known for its satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This auditory feedback is a hallmark of clicky switches and is sure to please users who enjoy a distinct and crisp sound with each key press. On the other hand, there is no information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances comfort during typing sessions and reduces finger fatigue, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. Additionally, the Brother switch features a stepped tactile bump that adds to the overall typing feedback without being overpowering. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, making it challenging to compare the two switches in this regard.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch shines with its lightweight nature, crunchy sound profile, and easy-to-press feel, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, it is essential to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two. If a user enjoys a clicky switch with a crunchy sound and easy actuation, the TTC Brother switch would be an excellent choice. Alternatively, if a quieter and smoother typing experience is preferred, the Outemu Silent Ocean switch may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you'll want to consider your priorities in terms of key feel and sound. If you prioritize a lightweight, tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, then the TTC Brother clicky switch is the way to go. Its breezy actuation and balanced tactile feedback make it a top choice for those who enjoy a distinct clicky feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a smooth keystroke without the audible clicky sound. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference based on your desired typing experience.
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