TTC Honey vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the TTC Honey and Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches offering a smooth typing experience. The TTC Honey is known for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned. The TTC Honey is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', while the Dustproof Red does not fall under any specific categories. If you're looking for a switch with a unique feel and sound, the TTC Honey may be the one for you. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. However, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing is also stiffer, while the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The differences in the bottom housing material between the Honey and the Dustproof Red switches lead to variations in the typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey provides a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel when compared to the softer nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red. On the other hand, when it comes to the release sound when letting go of a key, the top housing material will have a more significant impact. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials, providing users with different typing experiences.
Overall, while both the TTC Honey and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, their bottom housing materials vary. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a sharper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red creates a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials affect the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a unique feel and sound profile based on the combination of materials used. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The TTC Honey has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Dustproof Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Honey switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Dustproof Red switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch offers a slightly heavier feel, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Honey switch is shorter in travel distance compared to the Dustproof Red switch. A 0.2 mm might not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Dustproof Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of key press feel and response time.
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 Dustproof Red 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 switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound profile compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Honey switch is known for its creamy and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and silky sensation as your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. The switch is also described as frictionless, providing a fluid travel and a polished finish for reduced friction. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is unknown, but based on the qualities of the Honey switch, it can be expected to offer a similarly smooth and seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch is distinguished by its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch are not fully disclosed, it can be assumed that it may offer comparable results in terms of sound and feel to the Honey switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Honey linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should opt for the Honey if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. The Honey switch is also known for its subdued sound profile, offering a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and are focused on dustproof qualities, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Make sure to consider your typing style, desired feel, and sound preferences when making your decision.
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