Outemu Brown vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, and the KTT Wine Red, a linear switch. The Outemu Brown switch is known for its versatility and is categorized as a tactile switch. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch is praised for its intoxicating feel and deep, rich sound profile, falling into the category of linear switches. Each switch offers its own unique advantages - the Outemu Brown for a tactile typing experience and the KTT Wine Red for a smooth and satisfying keypress. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Brown and KTT Wine Red switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better light transmission. However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Brown switch uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp, higher-pitched sound profile of the top housing.
While both the Outemu Brown and KTT Wine Red switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create similar sound profiles, their bottom housings set them apart. The Brown switch's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp, crisp sound profile of the top housing. This contrast in bottom housing material affects the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing, and the sound upon key release impacted by the top housing. Despite these differences, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a consistent sound quality in that aspect.
In summary, the Outemu Brown and KTT Wine Red switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining sound profiles. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharp and clear sound, they diverge in their bottom housing materials. The Brown switch's nylon bottom housing generates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to distinct typing experiences, showcasing how the balance between top and bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the Brown switch is heavier in both aspects. The Brown switch has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Wine Red switch has an actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Brown switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing experience, and users can choose between a heavier or lighter option based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and typing experience when using either of these switches. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Brown switch or the smooth linear feel of the Wine Red switch, both options offer a consistent travel distance that will impact your overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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
The Outemu Brown tactile switch is known for its quiet and smooth typing experience, making it a popular choice for those looking for a non-disruptive keyboard. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is loved for its intoxicating sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone that adds a satisfying element to typing. When it comes to sound, the Brown switch is characterized by a lack of specific descriptors, while the Wine Red switch is known for being bassy and low-pitched, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile bump during key presses, providing feedback to the typist while maintaining a relatively quiet operation. The KTT Wine Red switch, on the other hand, delivers a pillowy light typing experience, giving typists a smooth and satisfying feel with each keystroke. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the switches are not available.
Overall, while the Outemu Brown and KTT Wine Red switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both can provide a pleasant typing experience based on individual preferences. Whether you prefer a quiet and tactile typing experience with the Outemu Brown switch or enjoy the deep and rich sound profile of the KTT Wine Red switch, both options have their own unique qualities that cater to a variety of typists. It is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider the characteristics that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience without added features, the Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force, a smooth linear typing experience, and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, the Wine Red switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and typing experience, so choose the switch that aligns best with your wants and needs.
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