Outemu Blue Jade vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Blue Jade is known for its satisfying clicky sound that provides auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a quieter typing experience with a tactile bump that is gentle yet noticeable. While the Blue Jade is best suited for those who enjoy the audible click of each key press, the Silent Brown is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and quiet 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the TTC Silent Brown, it is clear that they both utilize different materials for their top housings. The Blue Jade features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Silent Brown uses a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. While the Blue Jade offers a dulled and rounder sound, the Silent Brown provides a clearer and more resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Blue Jade and the Silent Brown make use of nylon material. This classic switch housing material also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar sound profile when typing on either switch, with a dull and round sound characteristic to nylon material. The choice to use nylon for the bottom housing in both switches reinforces the importance of this material in providing a specific sound experience to typists.
When considering how the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, it becomes apparent that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of choosing the right material for each part of the switch to achieve the desired sound and typing experience. Whether it's the nylon bottom housing of the Blue Jade or the nylon top housing of the Silent Brown, understanding the role of housing materials in switch design is crucial for customizing the typing experience to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue Jade requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blue Jade requires 65 grams while the Silent Brown requires 63.5 grams, making them quite similar in this aspect. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Brown due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may find the Blue Jade more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with slight variations in force that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Blue Jade offers a slightly longer keypress compared to the Silent Brown. The difference of only 0.2 mm may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who are sensitive to key travel distances, it can make a difference in the typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Jade leaning towards the longer end and the Silent Brown towards the shorter end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the depth of keypress and how it affects typing or gaming performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
The Outemu Blue Jade 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
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for providing a satisfying click with a tactile bump, resulting in a loud and crisp sound that is typical of clicky switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is praised for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. The Silent Brown switch achieves this by minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a great option for those looking for a more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Blue Jade switch does not have any specific descriptors provided. However, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as having a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the switch offers a mild typing sensation with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This combination of qualities in the Silent Brown switch creates a comfortable and pleasant typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two. If you enjoy a loud and crisp typing sound with a pronounced tactile bump, the Blue Jade switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and gentle keystroke, the Silent Brown switch would be a more suitable option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider all factors when deciding on the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, you should consider your typing preference and environment. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a louder sound profile, the Blue Jade switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a more subtle tactile bump and a smoother keystroke, the Silent Brown switch would be the better option. Additionally, if you work in a shared space or prefer a more discreet keyboard, the Silent Brown switch's muted sound profile would be advantageous. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider your priorities and choose accordingly.
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