Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, to the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience with its linear design, providing a unique feel and medium-light weight. Additionally, typing on the Crystal switch results in a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch offers tactile feedback, giving users a more pronounced bump during typing that provides a satisfying feel. While the Crystal Brown may lack a specific standout feature, its tactile nature can be appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Crystal Brown switches, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches enhances the overall sound quality, although the Crystal Brown switch also features a nylon bottom housing which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal switch.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Crystal switch contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, similar to its top housing. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material results in a split of qualities between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal and Outemu Crystal Brown switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the inclusion of a nylon bottom housing in the Crystal Brown switch sets it apart by offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches take advantage of the benefits of polycarbonate in creating a sharp and clear sound profile, especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. The housing material plays a crucial role not only in the sound produced by the switches but also in the overall typing experience, making them distinct choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, making them both medium-light switches. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for keypresses on both switches. The actuation force being the same ensures that typing in general will feel similar on both switches, while the bottom out force being equal means that the overall typing experience, in terms of the force exerted when pressing down keys all the way, will also be consistent. The medium-light weight of both switches makes them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience or who may need to type for extended periods of time without fatigue. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Outemu Crystal linear switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch will likely come down to personal preference for linear or tactile switches rather than differences in actuation or bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a consistent keypress feel and overall typing experience between the two switches. With a travel distance of 4 mm, both switches offer a moderate amount of key travel, allowing for a satisfying typing experience while still maintaining a relatively short actuation distance for quick response times. Whether you prefer the linear feel of the Crystal switch or the tactile feedback of the Crystal Brown switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique, linear typing experience with a fairly elastic feel and a medium-light weight. When typing on these switches, you can expect a neutral sound profile characterized by a chirpy and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have any specific subjective qualities mentioned in terms of sound or feel. The Crystal linear switch is described as having a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Since the Crystal Brown's qualities are unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound and feel. Overall, if you are looking for a linear typing experience with a unique sound profile and polished feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a suitable choice. If the subjective qualities of the Crystal Brown are similar, you may also achieve similar results with this tactile switch. It is important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps when determining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Crystal linear switch if you prefer a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Crystal Brown tactile switch if you prefer a tactile typing experience with the same medium-light bottom out force. Keep in mind that the Crystal Brown switch does not have specific sound or feel descriptors, so if you prioritize those characteristics, the Crystal linear switch may be the better choice for you. Consider your typing preferences and priorities to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
