Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and TTC Silent Brown are two popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that is best known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown is a tactile switch with a comfortable typing experience and a muted sound profile. If you prefer a clicky switch with audible feedback, the Dustproof Blue may be the way to go. However, if you value a quieter typing experience with a tactile bump, the Silent Brown could be the better option. 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the TTC Silent Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities in the top housing material, the differences lie in the bottom housing material.
The Dustproof Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar acoustic qualities to the Dustproof Blue. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the nylon bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a unique tactile feel for typists. As a result, users can expect differences in the sound and feel of key presses between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the TTC Silent Brown, making each switch suitable for different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch at 45 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Dustproof Blue requiring 65 grams and the Silent Brown at 63.5 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Blue requires a slightly heavier initial force to register a keystroke, the Silent Brown has a slightly lighter actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Silent Brown, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, the differences in force between the two switches are minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Blue has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, compared to the Silent Brown's 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Dustproof Blue offers a slightly deeper key press experience. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
The Outemu Dustproof 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
When comparing the sound of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is important to note that the Dustproof Blue switch does not have a specific sound profile mentioned. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch is known for its muted sound profile. Muted switches like the Silent Brown offer a quieter typing experience compared to louder and clackier switches. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Blue switch does not have a specific feel described. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch is known for its buttery, mild, and polished feel. A buttery switch indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless typing sensation. The mild characteristics of the Silent Brown switch offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue switch may provide a different sound and feel experience compared to the Silent Brown switch, but both switches offer their own unique benefits. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. If you enjoy a muted sound profile and a buttery, polished feel, the TTC Silent Brown switch may be the better option for you.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider their bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force, a louder clicky sound, and a more tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a lighter actuation force, a quieter typing experience, and a smoother, buttery feel while typing, the TTC Silent Brown switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort, noise level, and tactile feedback. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience.
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