TTC Iron vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch present distinct features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron boasts a unique clacky sound signature and a remarkably light actuation, making it ideal for those seeking a satisfying typing experience without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback to typists, enhancing accuracy and typing speed. While the TTC Iron may suit users who enjoy a smooth and light keystroke, the Outemu Brown may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile response. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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 Brown, it is clear that they each offer unique characteristics when it comes to sound profiles. The Iron's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of the polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Iron's POM bottom housing and the Brown's nylon bottom housing each contribute to the overall sound profile in their own way. The POM bottom housing creates a deeper sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Iron and the Outemu Brown, both switches share a common feature in their POM top housing. This material creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. However, the Brown distinguishes itself with its polycarbonate bottom housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Iron's POM bottom housing. Additionally, the Iron's POM bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Brown's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound overall.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each material are split between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both the Iron and the Brown offer their own unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials, providing users with different typing experiences depending on their preferences for sound characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Iron switch is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Brown switch is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, with the Iron being lighter and the Brown being medium-heavy. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, the Iron has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Iron switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers, while the Brown switch's longer travel distance may provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its distinctively clacky sound that adds a satisfying crispness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches will deliver a pleasant typing experience, but the Iron switch will provide a more pronounced and percussive sound compared to the Brown switch.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle tactile bump that provides just the right amount of feedback without being too pronounced. Both switches provide a responsive typing feel, but the Iron switch will offer a lighter and smoother typing experience compared to the Brown switch.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press actuation for a satisfying typing experience, the Brown switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild tactile bump for a versatile and comfortable typing feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch would be a great choice for a mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches will deliver reliable performance and satisfaction for both enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you desire a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a pronounced clacky sound, opt for the TTC Iron linear switch. This switch offers a swift and satisfying typing experience with buttery smooth travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Brown tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you seek.
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