Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu dustproof brown and the TTC silent brown both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The dustproof brown switch is categorized as tactile, while the silent brown switch is known for its buttery, mild, muted, and polished characteristics. The dustproof brown switch is best known for providing tactile feedback without any additional standout features. On the other hand, the silent brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. If you prefer a more straightforward tactile experience, the dustproof brown may be the way to go. However, if you value a quieter typing experience with additional tactile feedback, the TTC silent brown switch might be the better option for you. Let’s dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the TTC Silent Brown lies in their top housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clearer and resonant sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, this means that the sound produced by the top housing of both switches will be quite similar in terms of pitch and clarity.
Where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Outemu Dustproof Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and TTC Silent Brown switches play a significant role in the sound profiles they produce. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Whether you choose the Dustproof Brown or the Silent Brown, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with subtle differences in sound quality based on the bottom housing material.
Weight
Both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in that aspect. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown requires 65 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Silent Brown, which requires 63.5 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The weight of a switch is essential as it can affect typing comfort and prolonged usage. Some may prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, making the Silent Brown a suitable option for those scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof 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 traditional range of travel distances, with the Dustproof Brown being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Silent Brown for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Dustproof Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
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 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
The Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is best known for its durability and resistance to dust and debris, while the TTC Silent Brown switch is praised for its comfortable typing experience and muted sound profile. When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Brown's profile is currently unknown, but the Silent Brown switch is described as producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, thanks to its muted design. In terms of feel, the Dustproof Brown's profile is also unknown, while the Silent Brown switch offers a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. This means that the Silent Brown switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, a gentle typing experience, and a refined finish for sleek key travel. Overall, while we may not have specific information on the Dustproof Brown's sound and feel, the Silent Brown switch is known for its comfortable typing experience and quiet operation, making it a great choice for those seeking a tactile switch with a subdued sound profile. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, but if you enjoy the characteristics of the Silent Brown switch, you can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown switches may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if sound and feel are not major factors for you and you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches should be based on your personal typing preferences and priorities.