Outemu Blue vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offer two very different typing experiences. The Outemu Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is a linear switch that is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile and smooth, pillow-like feel. The Blue switch is perfect for those who enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, while the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is ideal for users looking for a quiet, smooth 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
39g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 terms of housing materials, the Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. However, the Blue switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2). Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when typing.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) results in a contrasting typing experience. When using the Blue switches, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials can significantly affect the overall typing experience, with the Blue switches offering a more muted and rounder sound compared to the clearer and resonant sound of the Silent Frozen (V2).
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, the contrasting bottom housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate in the Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) respectively, offer users a unique typing experience. By splitting the qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switch, users can feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch which has an actuation force of 39 grams, making the Blue switch heavier. The bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it lighter in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch may be more appealing, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Blue switch offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper press when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Overall, the Blue switch is longer in travel distance compared to the Silent Frozen (V2) switch, but both options offer a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
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 Blue 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 Blue clicky switch is known for its sharp and audible click, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile, ensuring a quiet typing experience that minimizes noise disturbance. The Blue switch will produce a clicky and pronounced sound, while the Silent Frozen switch will offer a deep and muffled typing experience, ideal for those seeking a silent option.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience, with a noticeable tactile bump and audible click upon actuation. Conversely, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offers a creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished typing feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke with reduced friction and light actuation force. The Blue switch will appeal to those who prefer a tactile and clicky feedback, while the Silent Frozen switch will cater to individuals looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Blue switch is best suited for users who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, while the Silent Frozen switch is a great choice for those seeking a quiet and smooth typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you prioritize a clicky and tactile typing experience with no bottom out force, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quiet, smooth, and light linear switch with a bottom out force of 43 grams, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is a great option. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force. Be sure to try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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