Outemu Crystal Brown vs. TTC Silent Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and TTC Silent Brown both offer tactile feedback, but with distinct characteristics. The Crystal Brown switch is best known for its undefined feature. It falls under a certain category. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch by TTC provides a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance level and a satisfying round tactile bump. Additionally, these switches are praised for their muted sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown and Silent Brown switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Crystal Brown featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the Outemu Crystal Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches offer a unique typing experience due to their housing materials. The split of qualities between the top and bottom housing affects the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing, typically polycarbonate in this case, plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing allows for a nuanced typing experience with each switch.

In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, the choice of nylon for the Crystal Brown's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the TTC Silent Brown. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users choose switches that align with their typing preferences and aesthetic preferences.

Weight

Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we can see that both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a similar initial typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Brown is lighter at 55 grams compared to the Silent Brown at 63.5 grams. The Crystal Brown offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Silent Brown provides a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who seek a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Silent Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the average range of travel distances, with the Crystal Brown offering a bit more depth compared to the Silent Brown. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown for quicker response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may not have a specific reputation for a certain sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is known for its muted sound profile, which provides a quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. The Silent Brown switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor for its tactile feel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. This means that the Silent Brown switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing feel that falls into a safe and approachable middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent Brown switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, contributing to an overall sleek typing sensation.

Taking into consideration the available information, it's clear that the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile, as well as a comfortable and smooth feel with its buttery and polished characteristics. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are not specifically highlighted, it's safe to say that both switches can provide a similar level of tactile feedback and typing comfort, with the Silent Brown switch offering additional features such as reduced noise and a refined keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel while typing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch or the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are not concerned about noise level, the Outemu Crystal Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a buttery, polished feel, the TTC Silent Brown could be the better option. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Silent Brown is designed for those who appreciate a more muted sound profile and a subtle tactile bump. Ultimately, make your decision based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.68 per 10

Learn more