Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Green mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices the difference in their tactile feedback and sound profile. The MX Brown is praised for its subtle tactility and quiet typing experience, making it a popular choice for office environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch offers a more pronounced tactile bump and audible click, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. While the MX Brown may be preferred for its subtlety and gentle tactility, the Outemu Green appeals to users who desire a more tactile and clicky 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
45g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Green switches both feature nylon top housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. However, the Outemu Green's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the more rounded sound of the MX Brown. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Outemu Green switch allows for RGB lighting, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Green switches utilize nylon, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing also contributes to a more dampened, rounder sound when typing on the switches. As a result, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using keyboards with these switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Green switches mainly affect the sound profile and aesthetic features of the switches. While both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the use of polycarbonate in the Outemu Green's top housing creates a crisper and clearer sound compared to the Cherry MX Brown. Additionally, the Outemu Green switch's clear polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting, providing users with the option to customize their keyboard's appearance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the MX Brown is lighter in both respects. The MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Outemu Green has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which is considerably heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Brown would be the better choice as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Green would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the user will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This can result in a consistent typing experience for users who prefer either switch type. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, guaranteeing a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch selected.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Outemu Green comes in at $3.10.
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 Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switches do not have a specific sound descriptor provided. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured, which means they have noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can offer a different typing experience compared to smoother switches, catering to the preferences of individual users. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel descriptor provided for the Outemu Green switches.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown switches are characterized by their subtlety in both sound and feel, offering a gentle tactility and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switches do not have specific descriptors provided for their sound or feel. However, it is important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Green switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with subtle tactile feedback and a quieter typing sound, then the Cherry MX Brown switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with strong tactile feedback and a clicky typing sound, then the Outemu Green switches would be more suitable. Consider how you type, how much force you prefer to use, and the level of auditory feedback you desire when making your decision between these two switch options. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch best fits your typing preferences and overall typing experience.