Outemu Brown vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, and the Akko Rosewood, a linear switch, each offering distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Outemu Brown is lauded for its tactile feedback, providing a noticeable bump upon actuation that can enhance typing accuracy and promote a satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who favor tactile sensations while typing. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood stands out for its smooth, linear travel and distinctive deep "thock" sound, enhanced by factory-applied lubrication that creates a satisfying auditory feedback without the tactile bump; this makes it an appealing option for gamers and typists who prioritize swift, uninterrupted keystrokes and a quieter typing environment. Both switches cater to different ergonomic and auditory preferences, yet each can significantly influence your overall keyboard 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

Outemu Brown Tactile

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and Akko Rosewood switches, distinct variations in their sound profiles and material characteristics emerge. The Outemu Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This stiffer plastic allows for clearer resonance, particularly advantageous for users who prioritize the sharpness of their keystrokes. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate means that RGB lighting effects are more vividly displayed, adding an aesthetic appeal if lighting customization is a consideration. By contrast, the Akko Rosewood features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic creates a more mellow typing experience, catering to those who prefer a subtle tactile feedback rather than the pronounced sharpness provided by polycarbonate.

Examining the bottom housings of both switches, the Outemu Brown and the Akko Rosewood share a commonality in utilizing nylon. This similarity contributes to a consistent sound profile across both models during typing. The nylon's sound absorption properties ensure that both switches provide a deeper and rounder feedback, especially felt when bottoming out. This characteristic is essential for users who enjoy a pronounced auditory response that offers a fuller experience, making the two switches comparable in terms of bottom-out sensations despite differences found in their top housings.

Overall, the combination of various materials in the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Brown and Akko Rosewood switches results in a unique blend of auditory experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Brown enhances clarity in sounds during release, while the nylon material in both models creates a robust bottom-out sensation. For those seeking a sharper sound profile, the Brown may be preferable; however, for users desiring a full-bodied and warmer auditory experience, the Akko Rosewood emerges as a compelling option. The differences in top housing materials play a significant role in crafting the overall typing experience while allowing users to choose according to their preferences without sacrificing the uniform benefits of nylon in the bottom housing.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Brown has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Consequently, if you're looking for a switch that offers an easy and comfortable typing experience over long periods, the Rosewood is the better choice, whereas the Brown is better suited for users who enjoy a firmer push. Overall, the Outemu Brown is the heavier switch while the Akko Rosewood is the lighter option.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar depth when pressing down on either switch. This equal travel distance allows for a consistent feel when typing or gaming, so individuals who prefer either switch can expect comparable tactile feedback and response. As a result, if you're accustomed to one of these switches, transitioning to the other should yield a similar experience in terms of keypress depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Brown switch generally produces a soft, muted sound when activated, typically characterized by a subtle "thump" due to its tactile bump, which can make it feel quieter than some other tactile switches. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch is recognized for its deep, satisfying "thock" sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that contributes to a richer auditory experience. Although the sound profile of any switch can be impacted by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the construction material of the case, the Rosewood clearly stands out with a more pronounced acoustic signature that many users find appealing.

When considering the feel, the Outemu Brown offers a tactile bump that provides a noticeable feedback during keypresses, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. It is favored by those who appreciate a balance between tactile feedback and smoothness. Meanwhile, the Akko Rosewood switch, being a linear switch, delivers a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile resistance. This smooth feel is often preferred by gamers or users who value rapid keypresses without any distractions, making the Rosewood ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming sessions.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a subdued but noticeable tactile feedback, the Akko Rosewood linear switch excels in sound quality with its deeper acoustic profile and provides a consistent smooth feel for users. If you seek a tactile experience with some auditory response, the Brown switch is a worthy contender. However, if you prioritize a richer sound and smoother keystrokes for an engaging typing experience, the Rosewood will likely suit your needs better. Both switches cater to different preferences, and choosing between them largely depends on whether you lean towards the tactile or the linear experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, the Outemu Brown is an excellent choice, especially for typists who appreciate that physical bump to signal the actuation point without the loud click often associated with clicky switches. This makes it a suitable option for a quiet office environment or for long gaming sessions where precision is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and smoother feel, with less resistance at only 50 grams, the Akko Rosewood switch would cater to your desire for an effortless typing experience. Its deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by factory lubrication, provides an auditory delight that could enhance your overall gaming or typing experience. In essence, if you prioritize feedback and tactile feel, go for the Brown; but if sound and a lighter touch appeal to you, the Rosewood is your best bet.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more