Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch. The Crystal Brown switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a subtle bump when pressed, making it ideal for typists who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch is recognized for its audible click sound with each key press, offering a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. While the Crystal Brown switch is categorized as a tactile switch and the Spring Breeze as a clicky switch, each has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Crystal Brown and Outemu Spring Breeze switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switches utilize a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the material of their top housings plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Crystal Brown and Spring Breeze switches feature nylon material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, contributing to the overall typing experience. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the tactile feedback and sound produced during typing sessions, even though other materials are used for their respective top housings.
Despite their differences in top housing materials, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Outemu Spring Breeze switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their unique housing materials. While the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, emphasizing a tactile feedback and sound absorption to enhance the typing experience. Regardless of the material used, each component of the housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch, ultimately catering to different preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have similar bottom out forces of 55 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed. However, the Crystal Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 40 grams. This means that the Spring Breeze requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke, making it ideal for those looking for a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown's higher actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Spring Breeze being the lighter option in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a similar key travel feel when using either switch. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a satisfying typing experience without requiring excessive force to press down on the keys. The consistent travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch they choose. In conclusion, both switches offer a comfortable key travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Crystal Brown and Spring Breeze.
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 Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for a subtle and quiet operation, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is recognized for its crisp and satisfying click sound with each keystroke, which can be appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is praised for its smooth and tactile bump, providing users with a noticeable actuation point for accurate typing. Conversely, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch offers a light and responsive feel, making it easy for users to type quickly and efficiently.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and Spring Breeze switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches are reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the subtle tactility of the Crystal Brown switch or the satisfying click of the Spring Breeze switch to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, no matter which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile bump with each keystroke and a quieter typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a clicky sound and feedback with each press, the Spring Breeze switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences for the best mechanical keyboard experience.
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