Outemu Brown vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Brown and the TTC Yunhai represent two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Brown switch, classified as a tactile switch, is renowned for its discernible bump, providing satisfying feedback that can enhance precision during gaming and typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai, characterized as a linear switch, is celebrated for its seamless keystrokes and remarkably light actuation force, making it an ideal option for those who seek a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the tactile feedback of the Brown switch can help typists feel more connected to their keystrokes, the gentle responsiveness of the Yunhai offers a unique, almost gliding sensation for an uninterrupted flow. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Brown and the TTC Yunhai mechanical switches exhibit distinct characteristics based on their housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and typing experiences. The Outemu Brown features a top housing made of polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The clarity provided by the polycarbonate ensures that when combined with RGB lighting, it produces a visually appealing and resonant sound with pronounced high frequencies. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai utilizes a nylon top housing that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound rather than project it, resulting in a rounder and less piercing auditory feedback when typing.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches share a commonality; the Outemu Brown and TTC Yunhai both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. As a result, they both provide a similar deep and rich sound profile from this aspect. The use of nylon in this section of the switch helps mitigate harshness and creates a more cushioned typing experience, allowing both switches to deliver that satisfying rounded sound at the bottom-out point. Thus, even though the top housings differ in material and sound characteristics, the shared nylon influence in the bottom housing means that both switches will present a cohesive sound experience that emphasizes warmth and fullness during typing.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the Outemu Brown's top housing and nylon in both switches' bottom housing results in a unique interplay between sound and feel. The polycarbonate top enhances the high-frequency sounds during release, while the nylon bottom ensures a heavy bass response when a key is pressed down. Meanwhile, the TTC Yunhai's nylon top housing maintains a consistently warm auditory profile throughout the action of typing, but it may lack the pronounced clarity provided by the polycarbonate. Overall, while the two switches deliver differing auditory experiences due to their top material variations, they share a similar nuanced sound base from their nylon bottom housings, culminating in distinct yet enjoyable typing outcomes.
Weight
The Outemu Brown tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to distinct typing preferences. The Outemu Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, marking it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Yunhai a better choice for users who prefer a lighter feel, facilitating longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Outemu Brown, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, offers a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a firmer push. Ultimately, if users seek similar results in terms of tactile feedback and resistance, they may find the Brown switch delivers a more pronounced push sensation, while the Yunhai provides a smoother and effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Outemu Brown switch provides a more pronounced keystroke, often preferred by those who enjoy a deeper typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and those who favor quicker response times due to less travel required between the top and bottom of the switch. While both switches serve different preferences—one for tactile feedback and the other for speed—the Outemu Brown clearly stands out with its longer travel distance, making it a better choice for individuals who appreciate a more substantial keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
The Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 produce a relatively subdued and pleasant noise, characteristic of tactile switches. Their acoustics fall in line with the typical expectations of a mechanical switch, emitting a soft thock sound upon actuation, but they lack the pronounced auditory feedback that some typists might seek. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switches offer a unique typing experience with their deep, rounded sound profile. This mellow sound, combined with their design, can contribute to a more soothing typing atmosphere. However, it's essential to remember that factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can influence the final sound experience, meaning users may achieve similar results if they pair either switch with suitable components.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switches excel with their tactile bump, providing noticeable feedback to the typist when the actuation point is reached. This quality makes them appealing for users who enjoy a degree of resistance and a definitive moment of feedback while typing. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai linear switches are celebrated for their incredibly light actuation force, resulting in a gentle and effortless typing experience. Unlike the tactile feedback of the Brown switches, the Yunhai switches offer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke, appealing to users who favor a more fluid and easily navigable typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Brown and TTC Yunhai switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. While the Brown offers a soft sound and tactile feedback suited for those who appreciate a traditional typing experience, the Yunhai presents a deep sound profile and lightweight action preferred by typists seeking a more effortless feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will hinge on individual typing styles and priorities, with each switch providing a distinct yet enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a medium-heavy feel, the Outemu Brown is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a switch that provides a bit more resistance during your keystrokes, which can enhance typing accuracy for certain users. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth, light actuation that allows for rapid key presses without much effort, the TTC Yunhai is ideal. Its unique sound profile and lightweight design cater to those who favor an effortless typing experience. Therefore, if you're leaning toward a typing experience that prioritizes a tactile bump and more force during key presses, the Outemu Brown would serve you well, whereas if you desire a smooth and lightweight keystroke, the TTC Yunhai is your go-to option. Ultimately, think about how each switch aligns with your typing habits to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.