Outemu Black vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the TTC Yunhai each bring unique characteristics to the table, appealing to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Outemu Black, a linear switch, is known for its smooth keystrokes and durability, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and consistent typing experience without any tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai, also a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and distinctive deep sound profile, providing a gentle and effortless feel that many typists find enjoyable. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, they embody different strengths that may influence your decision based on your typing style and sound preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$3.10 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Black and the TTC Yunhai switches exhibit contrasting characteristics in their top housing materials, significantly influencing their sound profiles during use. The Outemu Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper and crisper sound due to its rigidity. This stiffer plastic amplifies high-pitched tones, making it particularly effective for showcasing RGB lighting, given its translucency. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon results in sound absorption, leading to a more rounded acoustic experience. As a result, while both switches may utilize similar bottom housing materials, the differences in their top housings are stark and will influence the auditory feedback during usage.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Black and the TTC Yunhai share the same material: nylon. This choice in design is a direct nod to nylon's ability to create a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its sound-absorbing qualities. Both switches promise a similar tactile experience upon bottoming out, delivering a sound profile that is rounded and rich. This uniformity in bottom housing materials can lead to comparable results in terms of the feel and audible feedback during key presses, despite their differing top housings. The nylon bottom effectively dampens sound and reduces sharpness, imparting a fullness that can enhance the typing experience across both models.

Ultimately, when considering the entirety of the switch's performance, the duality of materials used in the Outemu Black and TTC Yunhai shows how both the sound profile and typing experience can diverge based on housing components. As mentioned, the top housing dictates the sound when releasing the key, while the bottom housing affects the quality felt when bottoming out. The Outemu Black's polycarbonate top creates a vibrant and clear tonal response, distinct from the Yunhai's more muted nylon top. However, the nylon bottom housing remains a common thread, linking the tactile aspects of both switches. When combined, these elements reinforce the idea that while the materials differ, careful consideration in design ensures that users can achieve desirable outcomes in both sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there is a marked difference in both actuation and bottom-out forces. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom-out force of 82 grams, categorizing it as a heavier switch. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a significantly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams. This disparity means that users who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Outemu Black, while those who favor longer typing sessions or gaming marathons might find the lighter Yunhai switch more comfortable. Ultimately, while the Outemu Black provides a heftier and more resistance-filled experience, the TTC Yunhai stands out as the lighter option, catering to those who require less effort per keystroke.

Travel distance

The Outemu Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Black switch offers a more traditional feel, providing a deeper keypress that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Yunhai’s shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and users looking for quicker response times, aligning with the trend toward shallower switches in modern keyboards. Consequently, the Black switch is suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced depth, whereas the Yunhai targets those who favor speed and efficiency in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Black linear switch offers a rather neutral auditory experience, which means it doesn’t stand out significantly in tonal qualities. This makes it a versatile choice for various typing environments. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch is celebrated for its deep and rounded sound profile, providing a more distinct auditory signature that some find pleasing during extended typing sessions. However, it’s important to note that the sound of both switches can be influenced greatly by the keyboard build and keycap material chosen.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for its smooth linear action, providing a consistent resistance throughout the key press but lacks additional tactile feedback, catering to those who prefer a straightforward experience. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch is characterized by its incredibly light actuation force, which makes each keystroke feel gentle and effortless, appealing to typists who enjoy a more delicate touch. This fundamental difference in actuation force can greatly affect comfort and typing speed.

In summary, while both the Outemu Black and TTC Yunhai linear switches fall under the same category of switches, their subjective qualities set them apart. The Yunhai’s unique sound and light actuation force provide a different experience compared to the neutral sound and smooth action of the Black. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound quality or a lighter feel in your typing experience. Depending on your preferences, both switches can lead to a satisfying experience, but they each cater to different typing styles and environments.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you desire from your keyboard. If you prefer a heavier switch that offers a more deliberate typing experience, then the Outemu Black, with its 82-gram actuation force, might be your ideal choice. It's well-suited for those who enjoy a robust feedback when typing or gaming, as the added weight can help prevent accidental key presses. However, if you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a smoother, more effortless experience, the TTC Yunhai is a fantastic option. With its 50-gram actuation force, it offers a unique typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Yunhai's deep, rounded sound profile provides a pleasing auditory feedback, making it an inviting choice for typists who appreciate both sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize weight and feedback in your typing experience or favor a lighter, more fluid sensation.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more