Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and Outemu Purple switches offer different typing experiences to cater to individual preferences. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump and feedback with each keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy the feel of a physical response while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch also falls under the tactile category but offers a slightly different typing experience, with a more pronounced tactile bump and a smoother keystroke. While the Brown switch may be preferred for its subtle tactile feedback, the Purple switch is favored for its more pronounced tactile response. 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
53g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Brown and Outemu Purple switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for better RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. However, the bottom housing of the Brown switch is made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Purple switch also has a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Brown switch.
In terms of sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. The softer plastic of the nylon absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, influences the sound when releasing a key, further shaping the overall typing experience for the user.
Overall, while the Outemu Brown and Outemu Purple switches have differences in their housing materials, such as the top housing being polycarbonate and the bottom housing being nylon, they ultimately offer similar sound profiles due to the combination of these materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clearer and more resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials showcase the attention to detail and customization options available in mechanical keyboard switches for users looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Brown switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Purple switch's 50 grams. Additionally, the Brown switch also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Purple switch is unknown. The actuation force of both switches is relatively similar, with the Brown switch being slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Purple switch may be preferred due to its lower actuation force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Outemu Brown switch may be a better option with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a moderate amount of tactile feedback and actuation force, making them ideal for typists who prefer a balance between typing speed and precision. In terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results and performance from both the Outemu Brown and Outemu Purple switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Brown and Purple.
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, both the Outemu Brown and Outemu Purple switches are known to produce a moderate amount of noise compared to other mechanical switches. The Brown switch tends to have a slightly quieter and softer sound profile when typing, while the Purple switch provides a bit more audible click due to the click jacket mechanism. However, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a tactile bump feedback.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch is often praised for its smooth tactile bump and moderate actuation force, making it a popular choice for typists who prefer a balance between typing comfort and feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch is also a tactile switch but offers a more pronounced tactile bump and slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback experience for users who enjoy a more tactile typing feel.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Brown and Outemu Purple switches offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Brown switch is more subtle and balanced in its sound and tactile feedback, the Purple switch delivers a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. However, both switches are reliable options that will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should consider the level of tactility you prefer. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, then the Outemu Brown switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter typing experience with a more pronounced tactile bump, then the Outemu Purple switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and actuation force. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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