Outemu Lime vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the Outemu Lime and the TTC Silent Brown switches. The Lime switches stand out due to their lightweight build, approachable tactility, and their ability to provide a muted typing experience. These switches are perfect for tactile enthusiasts who prefer a feathery light typing feel with just a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What makes them truly shine is their muted sound profile, which is loved by many users. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Lime Tactile

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$3.40 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the TTC Silent Brown switches differ in their composition, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Lime switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a more mellow typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch features a polycarbonate top housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic offers a more clear and resonant sound quality. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. Although differing in sound characteristics, both switches use nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and fuller sound profile.

While the nylon bottom housing of both the Outemu Lime and the TTC Silent Brown switches creates a similar deeper and fuller sound, their top housing materials affect different aspects of the typing experience. As mentioned, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. In this case, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a softer and more muted bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the Lime switch results in a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown switch produces a sharper and crisper sound. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the top of the switch can significantly impact the auditory experience during typing.

Overall, the Outemu Lime and the TTC Silent Brown switches have distinct housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Lime switch's nylon housing materials provide a deeper and fuller sound with a duller tone, while the Silent Brown switch's polycarbonate materials create a sharper and crisper sound. Despite these differences, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and fuller sound. When selecting a switch, considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials is crucial, as they influence various aspects of the typing experience such as key press and release sounds.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Lime switch has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, meaning it requires a gentle push to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which indicates that pressing the key all the way down requires just a slightly heavier force. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel when typing. Similarly, its bottom out force of 63.5 grams suggests a moderately heavy force required to press the key fully. Therefore, the Lime switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Silent Brown switch, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, if a user enjoys the sensation of a stronger push when typing, the Silent Brown switch would be the better option. Both switches offer distinct benefits based on personal preferences, ensuring users can find a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is apparent that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent Brown has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both switches fall within a reasonable range. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Lime switch would be the preferable option due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes. In this case, the Silent Brown switch with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired feel during typing or gaming experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Outemu Lime and TTC Silent Brown switches are described as having a muted sound profile. This means that they produce softer and quieter sounds compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Lime switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for various purposes and environments. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Lime switch provides a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. It is described as a mild switch that offers a gentle typing experience while maintaining a light feel. The switch is also noted to be subtle in its resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, the Lime switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Similarly, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. It is also classified as a mild switch, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. The Silent Brown switch is further described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Like the Lime switch, the Silent Brown switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Lime and TTC Silent Brown switches offer muted sound profiles, making them suitable for those seeking quieter mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, they both provide a gentle and approachable typing experience. The Lime switch is known for its lightweight and feathery feel, while the Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump. Both switches are also described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, those who prefer the qualities of the Lime switch will find similar results with the Silent Brown switch, ensuring a satisfying tactile experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you are looking for a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a feathery typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is a great choice for you. With its bottom out force of 45 grams, the Lime offers a mild and subtle feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Lime is silenced, providing a muted sound profile that minimizes noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Silent Brown offers a buttery and mild feel that is well-suited for extended typing sessions. Like the Lime, the Silent Brown also has a muted sound profile, making it a great choice for shared spaces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Lime Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more