TTC Iron vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch offer distinct qualities worth considering. The TTC Iron is praised for its pronounced clacky sound signature that enhances the typing experience, alongside its light actuation and smooth travel for fatigue-free sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch lacks specific standout features but is known for its reliability and durability. While the Iron switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Black switch does not have any specific categories associated with it. 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
41g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Outemu Black, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles. The Iron's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, whereas the Black's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Iron providing a more subdued feel and the Black offering a more distinct and resonant typing sound.
Furthermore, the housing materials of the TTC Iron and Outemu Black differ in their aesthetic qualities as well. The Iron's POM bottom housing, like the top housing, produces a pleasing and unique sound profile, whereas the Black's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Black's top housing allows for RGB lighting capabilities, making it a more visually appealing option for users looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting effects.
Despite the differences in sound profile and aesthetics between the two housing materials, both the TTC Iron and Outemu Black offer a high-quality typing experience. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings allows for a unique feel with each keystroke. Whether you prefer the deeper, more muted sound of the POM housing in the Iron or the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Black, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences and needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, significant differences are evident. The TTC Iron switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a stronger push sensation may opt for the Outemu Black switch due to its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter touch may find the TTC Iron switch more appealing. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the TTC Iron offering a lighter touch and the Outemu Black providing a heavier feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Iron switch. The extra 0.2 mm in travel distance may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the keyboard feels when typing. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times may opt for the TTC Iron switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Outemu Black switch. Overall, both switches offer unique typing experiences, and the choice between them will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
The Outemu Black 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 Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each press, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound profile is not specified, so it may not offer the same distinctive clacky sound as the Iron. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, so individual results may vary.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses which can lead to a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's feel is not specified, so it's difficult to directly compare it to the light actuation and smooth travel of the Iron. If the Black switch falls in the realm of mild and low-impact typing, it may not provide the same effortless typing experience as the Iron.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its distinct clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking precision and pleasure in their keystrokes. While information on the Outemu Black linear switch is limited, if it offers a neutral sound and a mild typing feel, users can expect a more moderate and subdued experience compared to the pronounced characteristics of the Iron. In general, both switches may provide similar results in terms of functionality, but the Iron's specific attributes set it apart for those who prioritize sound and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the Outemu Black linear switch, you should opt for the TTC Iron if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a pronounced clacky sound signature, and easy-to-press keys for swift and fatigue-free typing sessions. On the other hand, you should go for the Outemu Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams without any distinct sound or feel characteristics mentioned. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for key feel, sound, and typing experience.
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