Outemu Cream Blue vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Cream Blue switch is known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile bump for enhanced accuracy. While the Cream Blue switch may appeal to those looking for a more audible typing experience, the Silent Brown switch is perfect for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the TTC Silent Brown, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, making for a more satisfying sound experience overall. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing contrasts with the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, particularly beneficial for switches with clear housings and RGB lighting.
The choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of key presses. In this case, both the Cream Blue and Silent Brown switches share the quality of using a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, where they differ is in their top housing material, with the Cream Blue featuring nylon and the Silent Brown utilizing polycarbonate. This contrast leads to distinct sound profiles, with the Cream Blue offering a deeper and duller sound, while the Silent Brown provides a sharper and clearer sound for typists to enjoy.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the TTC Silent Brown impact the overall typing experience in different ways. While both switches have nylon bottom housings that create a deeper and fuller sound, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing contributes to a rounder sound profile, contrasting with the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. Typists looking for a more muted and subdued sound may prefer the Cream Blue, whereas those seeking a brighter and clearer sound may gravitate towards the Silent Brown. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience for users.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch's 45 grams, making the Cream Blue slightly heavier in terms of initial keypress. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Blue requires 65 grams to fully press the key, while the Silent Brown only needs 63.5 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the TTC Silent Brown for its slightly lighter actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may appreciate the Outemu Cream Blue for its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience with these two switches due to their comparable weight profiles.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find that the Cream Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Cream Blue offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Silent Brown. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Cream Blue with its slightly longer travel distance, while those looking for a more subtle keypress may opt for the Silent Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
The Outemu Cream Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for its sharp and crisp click sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is praised for its muted sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience ideal for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of keyboard noise level.
Moving on to the feel, the Cream Blue switch is often described as having a tactile and satisfying feedback with a prominent click during actuation. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch is known for its buttery, mild, and polished feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation with a light-medium level of resistance. While the Cream Blue offers a more pronounced tactile bump, the Silent Brown focuses on a comfortable and gentle typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a smoother keystroke feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue excels in providing a sharp and crisp click sound with a tactile feedback, while the Silent Brown emphasizes a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel for a smoother typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for keyboard noise level and typing sensation, both switches cater to different needs and can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and do not mind a louder typing experience, the Cream Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Silent Brown would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the satisfying click of the Cream Blue or the comfortable and muted typing experience of the Silent Brown. Consider your typing environment and personal preferences when making your choice.
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