Outemu Brown vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Phoenix. The Brown switch is a tactile switch known for its smooth performance. In contrast, the Phoenix switch is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique and crystalline sound profile. The Brown switch is categorized as linear, while the Phoenix switch falls under clicky. Depending on your preference, you may choose the Brown switch for its tactile feedback or the Phoenix switch for its distinctive clicky sound. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
53g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Phoenix, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is especially beneficial for users looking to enhance their RGB lighting experience. However, the Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may affect the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Phoenix share similar qualities in their top housing material. The use of polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. This consistency in top housing material ensures that users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics, regardless of which switch they choose. However, the choice between a nylon bottom housing in the Brown and a polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phoenix may influence the overall typing experience.
Overall, the variation in housing materials between the Outemu Brown and the Outemu Phoenix may result in differences in sound and feel when typing on the switches. The combination of a nylon bottom housing in the Brown and a polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phoenix can lead to distinct sound profiles, with the Brown offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Phoenix. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the choice between the two may ultimately come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether that includes a softer, more absorbent bottom-out sound or a clear, resonant sound profile.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have some differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Brown switch has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. In comparison, the Phoenix switch does not specify an actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Brown switch. This means that the Brown switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke, but both switches have a similar bottom out force. The actuation force of a switch is important for determining how much force is needed to type, while the bottom out force indicates how it feels when pressing the key all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier touch is preferred for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Brown's travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, while the Phoenix offers a shallower press. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix for faster response times, but some users may find it too abrupt. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is celebrated for its crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The under-skirt click mechanism of the Phoenix creates a unique and satisfying auditory feedback that some users find incredibly enjoyable. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard housing and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch is recognized for its tactile feedback without the audible click, providing a smooth and precise typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix switch offers a polished feel, thanks to its smooth and refined finish which reduces friction and promotes a sleek key travel. This can result in a more fluid and effortless typing sensation, especially for users who appreciate a well-lubed switch.
Overall, both the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Brown switch focuses on a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Phoenix switch delivers a unique and satisfying crunchiness combined with a polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and refined typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Brown switch may be the better option for you. However, if you are looking for a unique and sparkling clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and crunchy sound profile, the Phoenix switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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