Outemu Brown vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and Kailh Sage offer unique typing experiences. The Brown switch is a tactile switch known for its subtle feedback and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp, crunchy clickiness. Choosing the Brown switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience, while the Sage switch is ideal for users who appreciate a satisfying click sound with each keystroke. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Sage switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches produce a more resonant sound that is especially suitable for RGB lighting setups. Additionally, the clear translucency of polycarbonate adds a unique aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the differences may lie in the nuances of sound produced with each brand's specific design and construction.
On the other hand, both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that adds a satisfying tactile response to key presses. While both switches benefit from the acoustic properties of nylon, slight variations in the manufacturing process and design may lead to subtle differences in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in the Outemu Brown and Kailh Sage switches results in a unique typing experience for users. The splitting of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a nuanced sound profile that can be felt both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. The choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience, making it essential for users to consider the specific qualities of each material when selecting a switch for their keyboard setup.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have some notable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage has an actuation force of Unknown grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. The main contrast between the two switches is that the Brown has a specified actuation force, while this information is not available for the Sage. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Brown for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Kailh Sage. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy feel, providing similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. If you prefer a more traditional and deeper key press, the Outemu Brown switch might be the better choice for you. In contrast, if you prioritize faster response times and a shallower key press, then the Kailh Sage switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 switches are known for their quiet and subtle typing experience, making them ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches offer a distinct and satisfying clicky sound with each keypress, providing a more audibly engaging typing experience. The sound profile of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing between the two.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switches are known for their smooth and subtle tactile feedback, providing a gentle bump with each keystroke. On the contrary, the Kailh Sage switches are described as invigorating and sharp, offering a more pronounced tactile bump and a firmer actuation force. This results in a more tactile and responsive typing experience, which can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile feel while typing.
Overall, the Outemu Brown switches and Kailh Sage switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback, the Outemu Browns would be a great choice. However, if you enjoy a more clicky sound with a pronounced tactile bump, the Kailh Sage switches would be a better fit. Both switches offer high-quality performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of durability and overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a smooth typing experience, consider the Outemu Brown switches. They are known for their balanced feel and are great for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you are seeking a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Kailh Sage switches may be more up your alley. The Sage switches provide a crunchy sound and an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between Outemu Brown and Kailh Sage switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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