Outemu Black vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black and the Outemu Brown. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible click. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, providing a slight bump in the keystroke to indicate actuation without the noise of a click. Both switches have their strengths - the Black for a consistent keystroke for gaming and fast typing, and the Brown for a more tactile typing experience that can enhance accuracy. 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
65g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and Outemu Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the differences may arise in the bottom housing material, as the Black features a nylon bottom housing, while the Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings tends to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
While both the Outemu Black and Outemu Brown switches have similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences can be found in how the nylon bottom housings affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom results in a combination of qualities when using the switches. The bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the top housing material, in this case, polycarbonate, plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key, creating a sharper and crisper sound.
Overall, while the Outemu Black and Outemu Brown switches share similarities in their housing materials, the different combinations of polycarbonate and nylon create distinct sound profiles for each. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a unique typing experience, with each housing material playing a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch is heavier than the Outemu Brown tactile switch, with an actuation force of 65 grams compared to 53 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams compared to 65 grams. The Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, ideal for those who prefer a stronger key press. In contrast, the Brown switch offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their weight, with the Black switch offering a heavier feel and the Brown switch providing a lighter touch.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, both switches offer the same tactile feedback and actuation point despite having different characteristics. The Outemu Black linear switch provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a slight tactile bump to indicate when the key has been actuated. Despite these differences, the travel distance remains consistent at 4 mm for both switches. This means that whether you choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you can expect to get similar typing experiences in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Black and Brown.
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
The Outemu Black linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes with no tactile bump, making it a popular choice for gamers who require quick and consistent actuation. This switch produces a relatively quiet sound when pressed, allowing for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being too loud, making it a versatile option for both typists and gamers. The tactile bump on the Brown switch allows for a more pronounced typing experience, providing feedback with each key press.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black switch offers a consistent linear actuation, allowing for seamless key presses without any interruptions. This smooth feel is preferred by those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch provides a tactile bump that indicates when the key press has been registered, giving users a tactile response that can help improve typing accuracy and overall typing experience. The tactile feel of the Brown switch adds a layer of feedback that some users find appealing.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch offer different qualities in sound and feel, both switches are durable and reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, users can choose between the smooth and consistent actuation of the Black switch or the satisfying tactile feedback of the Brown switch. Ultimately, both switches are capable of delivering a high-quality typing experience, and users can expect similar levels of performance regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between Outemu Black linear switches and Outemu Brown tactile switches, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Black linear switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Brown tactile switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a smoother typing experience without tactile feedback, the Black switch would be a better fit. However, if you enjoy the tactile bump for feedback while typing, the Brown switch would be the way to go. It ultimately comes down to your personal preference for switch weight, feel, and sound.
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