TTC Iron vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch with the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences to consider in choosing the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs. The TTC Iron is praised for its distinctive clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, providing a pleasurable typing experience with swift and fatigue-free keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is known for its satisfying clicky feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a 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
41g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
The TTC Iron's POM top housing and POM bottom housing both contribute to creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. In contrast, the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with the polycarbonate providing a clearer and more resonant sound. The POM material in the Iron allows for a consistent sound profile throughout the press of a key, while the nylon material in the Blue provides a deeper and fuller sound that is especially noticeable during bottom-out.
Both the Iron and the Blue exhibit unique sound profiles that are influenced by their top and bottom housing materials. While the POM material in the Iron creates a more subdued sound profile, the polycarbonate in the Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the softer nylon material in the Blue's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Iron's POM bottom housing. Overall, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to their distinct sound characteristics.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate top housing is more visually appealing due to its translucency, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the TTC Iron's POM top housing may not offer the same visual impact but still contributes to a unique sound profile. While the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound of a switch, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both the Iron and Blue offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Iron is heavier at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue switch is unknown. This means that the Iron switch will provide a lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, but a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed compared to the Blue switch. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Iron for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Iron linear switch. The difference may not be significant to most users, but for those who are more sensitive to key press depths, it could make a difference. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue being the more common choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether you prefer a slightly shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Blue 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 Iron linear switch stands out with its clacky sound signature, which adds a satisfying sharp and snappy noise to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown. Depending on factors like keyboard construction and keycaps, the sound produced by both switches may vary.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is praised for being easy to press, requiring minimal force for activation, thus reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The smooth travel of the Iron switch enhances the overall typing experience, providing a responsive and low-impact feel. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is unspecified, leaving its tactile feedback and actuation force unknown.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice among users looking for precision and comfort in typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks detailed information about its sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare. However, based on the available information, it can be expected that the Iron switch will provide a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience compared to the Blue switch. Ultimately, selecting the ideal switch will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a light actuation force and a smooth, clacky typing experience, the TTC Iron linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinctive sound profile and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue clicky switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Choose wisely based on the characteristics that align with your typing style and preferences.
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