Outemu Blue vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the TTC Silent Red, a linear switch. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory and tactile cues while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is renowned for its quiet operation, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience without the loud clicking noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Reds ideal for use in an office or shared living space where noise may be a concern. While the Blue switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Silent Red switch prioritizes a quieter 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Red switches both utilize polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches gives them a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through effectively. However, despite these similarities in the top housings, the bottom housings differ between the two switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Red switches feature nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Red switches may exhibit slight differences in sound and feel due to other factors such as stem design and overall switch construction.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Blue and TTC Silent Red switches creates a unique tactile and auditory experience for keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches offer a distinct sound profile, the differences in material between the top and bottom housings contribute to variations in the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience for users seeking different levels of acoustic feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Outemu Blue switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Silent Red's 45 grams, making the Blue switch the heavier option. However, the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown, while the Silent Red switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Red switch would be the better option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience may prefer the Outemu Blue switch with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Silent Red's 3.7 mm. This means that the Outemu Blue clicky switch requires slightly more distance to activate than the TTC Silent Red linear switch. The Blue switch may provide a more tactile feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Silent Red switch offers a quicker response time with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user. Both switches have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to travel distance, so selecting the appropriate one will ensure a better typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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
The Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, making it a popular choice for typists who enjoy auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is designed to provide a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The Silent Red switch also offers a smooth and consistent keystroke feel from top to bottom, along with a padded bottom-out feel for added comfort during extended typing sessions.
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue switch produces a distinct clicky sound that some users find satisfying and reminiscent of traditional mechanical keyboards, while the TTC Silent Red switch offers a muted sound profile that minimizes noise and disturbance, making it a more versatile option for various settings. In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch may provide a more tactile and feedback-driven typing experience, while the TTC Silent Red switch offers a buttery and polished keystroke feel that is smooth and uniform throughout.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. If you prefer a loud and clicky typing experience with tactile feedback, the Blue switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quiet and smooth typing experience with minimal noise, the Silent Red switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, and your decision may come down to personal preference and the specific usage scenario.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience with a light keypress, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Red switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize noise level, typing feel, or other factors that are important to you. We hope this comparison has helped you make an informed decision on which mechanical keyboard switch is best for your needs.
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