Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that they both fall under the tactile switch category. The MX Brown is acclaimed for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and minimal audio feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom lacks a specific standout feature but still offers a tactile typing experience. When considering which switch to choose, the MX Brown may be preferred for its textured feel and low-pitched sound profile, while the Tom might appeal to those seeking a more straightforward tactile switch. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Tom switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the plastic. This characteristic allows for a more muted and rounded sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, while the MX Brown has a nylon top housing, the Outemu Tom boasts a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is stiffer than nylon, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for better RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing choice for those interested in customizing their keyboard setup.
In terms of sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of both the MX Brown and Outemu Tom switches contribute to the overall typing experience by providing a deep and full sound profile. The softness of the nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing is responsible for the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Tom adds a distinct sharpness and clarity to the sound produced, contrasting the softer and deeper sound profile of the nylon top housing found in the MX Brown.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Tom switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a consistent deep and full sound experience, while the top housing materials - nylon for the MX Brown and polycarbonate for the Outemu Tom - offer contrasting sound profiles. Those interested in a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Outemu Tom with its polycarbonate top housing, especially if they value RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the MX Brown's nylon top housing provides a softer and more muted sound profile, which may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Brown requires 55 grams of force to fully press down, while the Outemu Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The MX Brown provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Tom switch may appeal to users seeking a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options, allowing individuals to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The MX Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial keypress feel. On the other hand, the Tom provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer a good balance between travel distance and keypress feedback, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. In this case, if you prefer a longer travel distance for a more robust keypress feel, the Cherry MX Brown would be the better option. Conversely, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quick and responsive keypresses, the Outemu Tom would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of tactile feedback, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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 Tom 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 offers a bassy and low-pitched typing experience, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom switch's sound characteristics are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Cherry MX Brown is known for its textured tactile feedback, offering a subtle friction when pressed that some users may find appealing. Conversely, the tactile feel of the Outemu Tom switch is not specified. It's important to note that the tactile feel of a switch greatly influences the typing experience and user preference.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Tom switches may offer different sound and tactile qualities based on the available information. While the MX Brown is renowned for its subtle tactility and bassy sound profile, the characteristics of the Outemu Tom switch remain unknown. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors affecting your typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Outemu Tom tactile switches, you'll want to choose the MX Brown if you prefer a subtle typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. The MX Brown is also known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, as well as its textured feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and do not mind the lack of specific sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Tom may be an option to consider. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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