Outemu Black vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Black and the TTC Silent Frozen V2. The Outemu Black is a linear switch with a reputation for reliability, while the TTC Silent Frozen V2 is also a linear switch but is best known for its extremely quiet sound profile and smooth, pillowy feel. The Black switch falls into the category of basic linear switches, while the Silent Frozen V2 switch is categorized as subtle, low-pitched, and muted. Each switch offers unique benefits, with the Black switch providing a no-frills linear experience and the Silent Frozen V2 switch offering a quiet, luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
65g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness and clear resonant qualities. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable auditory experience with either switch, especially if they plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency. However, the Black also features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the top housing to maintain a consistent sound profile throughout.
When examining the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Black and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it becomes apparent that the choice of materials impacts the sound and feel of each switch. While the polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to their sharp and crisp sound profiles, the Black's nylon bottom housing adds a unique depth and fullness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2)'s decision to use polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing maintains a uniform sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance. This distinction showcases how varying housing materials can influence the overall tactile feedback and auditory response of mechanical switches.
In essence, the Outemu Black and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) showcase how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the performance and sound characteristics of mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing to achieve a sharp and clear sound profile, the inclusion of nylon in the Black's bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) maintains consistency in its sound profile by utilizing polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall tactile feedback, sound quality, and user experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, the main difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Black has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. This means that the Outemu Black is the heavier option, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is the lighter option. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, the Black switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Silent Frozen (V2). The Black switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Silent Frozen (V2) provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Silent Frozen (V2) a popular choice in that regard. However, those who prefer a deeper key press may find the Outemu Black switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
The Outemu Black 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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for being relatively loud with a solid "thock" sound and a higher pitch compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile, described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted. This means that the Silent Frozen (V2) switch will offer a much quieter typing experience, making it ideal for shared spaces or for those who prefer a more subtle sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a specific description provided, but typically linear switches like the Black are known for having a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, on the other hand, is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. This indicates that the Silent Frozen (V2) switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing sensation.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a loud and higher-pitched sound, the Outemu Black switch may be the way to go. However, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience with a light actuation force, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch would be a better fit. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so be sure to consider the entire setup when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches will offer a linear typing experience, but the Silent Frozen (V2) switch will deliver a quieter and smoother feel compared to the Outemu Black switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, you should consider the level of force required to actuate the switches. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 43 grams and value a silent and smooth typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and preferred actuation force.
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