TTC Honey vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, there are clear distinctions to consider. The TTC Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, offering a satisfying typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. This switch is categorized as 'subdued', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'buttery', 'subtle', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch doesn't have any standout features. While the Honey switch may be preferred for its smoothness and sound profile, the Brown switch may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional 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
42g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
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
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Outemu Brown switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Honey switch also includes a polycarbonate bottom housing, further enhancing its sound profile, while the Brown switch uses a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Brown switch produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of the switches results in varied sound and feel experiences for users. When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing have a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Honey switch, the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Brown switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing material of a switch, such as polycarbonate in this case, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key. This highlights how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience.
While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch's use of polycarbonate in both its top and bottom housing results in a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the typing experience. In contrast, the Brown switch's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is deeper and fuller, catering to users who prefer a softer and more rounded typing experience. Overall, the housing materials of these switches showcase how different plastics can impact sound and feel, offering users a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Honey is lighter in both aspects. The Honey has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch overall. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which puts it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Honey would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Brown would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance. The difference between the two may not be significant, but for some users, the extra 0.2 mm of travel on the Outemu Brown switch could provide a slightly deeper key press experience. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular among users looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and response speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The Outemu 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its subdued sound profile, offering a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, which could indicate a more standard switch sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Honey linear switch is praised for its creamy and frictionless typing experience. The switch offers a smooth and buttery sensation, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. Additionally, the switch is described as buttery, subtle, and polished, with a seamless and refined typing feel. In contrast, there are no specific feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Brown tactile switch, leaving its tactile experience open to interpretation.
Overall, while the TTC Honey linear switch is lauded for its smooth and creamy feel, as well as its subdued sound profile, the Outemu Brown tactile switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its tactile feel and sound characteristics. Based on the available information, it can be inferred that the TTC Honey linear switch may offer a more distinctive and refined typing experience compared to the Outemu Brown tactile switch. However, without specific details on the Brown switch, it is possible that both switches could provide similar results in terms of feel and sound.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you value a lighter bottom out force, a smooth and creamy typing experience, as well as a more subdued sound profile, then the TTC Honey linear switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more traditional tactile typing experience, then the Outemu Brown tactile switch would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what feels best for you when making a decision.