Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and Outemu Red are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, providing a slight bump feedback when pressed, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any bump or click, perfect for those who prioritize a consistent and quiet typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths - the Brown for tactile feedback and the Red for smoothness - making them suitable for different preferences and usage. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Red switches both share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the Brown and Red differ in the material used for their bottom housing. The Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Red also has a nylon bottom housing for a similar sound effect.
While both the Outemu Brown and Red switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, the nylon bottom housing of each switch provides a unique sound experience. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This allows for a more varied typing experience as the qualities of each housing material are felt differently when typing on the switch. Whether you prefer the deeper, fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing or the crisp, resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Brown and Red switches ultimately depends on personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, with the Brown featuring polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, while the Red utilizes the same materials in both top and bottom housing. The split qualities of each material in the different housing components provide a unique sound and feel when typing on the switches. Whether you prefer a sharper, clearer sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Red linear switch. The Brown requires 53 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, giving it a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Red only needs 46 grams to actuate and 62 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option with a medium force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Brown for a stronger push force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch is the same, both measuring 4 mm. When comparing the two switches, they both offer a similar tactile feel and actuation force, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The shorter travel distance of 4 mm on both switches allows for swift and precise typing, making them ideal for both gaming and typing tasks. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Brown tactile switch or the Outemu Red linear switch, you can expect a consistent and efficient typing experience with a comfortable travel distance.
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 Red.
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 Brown tactile switch is known for producing a soft, muted sound compared to the Outemu Red linear switch which produces a slightly louder and crisper sound. The Brown switch is often preferred by those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Red switch is favored by individuals who enjoy a bit more audible feedback while typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a bump in the middle of the key press that provides tactile feedback, making it easier to know when the key has been actuated. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch provides a smooth, consistent typing experience without any tactile bump. Those who prefer a more pronounced feedback often lean towards the Brown switch, while the Red switch is favored by those who prefer a smoother keystroke without any resistance.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a softer sound and tactile feedback, the Brown switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience, the Red switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a great typing experience, so you can expect similar high-quality results with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and tactile feedback, then the Outemu Brown switch would be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth linear feel, then the Outemu Red switch would be more suited to your liking. Consider how you prioritize typing experience, sound, and overall feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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