Outemu Dustproof Green vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Green 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 Green and TTC Silent Brown offer distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Green switch is a clicky switch that provides a tactile bump along with an audible click, making it suitable for those who enjoy the satisfying sound and feel of each keypress. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch is a tactile switch known for its comfort and light-medium resistance, offering a quieter typing experience with a satisfying rounded tactile bump. While the Dustproof Green switch is categorized as a clicky switch, the Silent Brown switch falls into the tactile category. Both switches have their unique qualities 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 Green and the TTC Silent Brown, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, despite the similarities in their top housing material, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Dustproof Green utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Brown also uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties.
While the top housing of both the Outemu Dustproof Green and the TTC Silent Brown is made of polycarbonate, their contrasting bottom housing materials create different sound profiles. The characteristics of nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs sound, make for a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material. This means that despite the similarities in their top housing material, there will be noticeable differences in the sound produced by the bottom housing of each switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
In conclusion, while both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets the Outemu Dustproof Green and the TTC Silent Brown apart in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, with each material contributing unique qualities to the sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. The Dustproof Green requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavy switch. In contrast, the Silent Brown only needs 45 grams to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out, placing it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Brown would be the better choice, as it requires less force overall. However, if a more substantial push feel is preferred, the Dustproof Green would provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the average range of travel distances for mechanical keyboards. The Dustproof Green switch offers a slightly deeper keypress experience compared to the Silent Brown switch. If you prefer a more responsive feel with a shorter travel distance, the Silent Brown switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a more substantial keypress depth, the Dustproof Green switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Green 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 Dustproof Green clicky switch may offer a more traditional and louder mechanical keyboard experience compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch. The Silent Brown switch, known for its muted sound profile, provides a quieter typing experience that may be more suitable for shared workspaces or environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound level and typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the tactile experience of the TTC Silent Brown switch. The Silent Brown switch, described as buttery, mild, and polished, offers a smooth and comfortable typing sensation with a light to medium level of resistance. This combination of tactile feedback and refined key feel may appeal to typists looking for a pleasant and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Green switch may cater to those who prefer a louder and more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, while the Silent Brown switch appeals to individuals seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound level, typing noise, and tactile feel. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your typing preference and environment. If you enjoy a heavy clicky switch with a satisfying tactile feedback and don't mind the louder sound profile, the Dustproof Green may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a quieter, more muted typing experience with a lighter tactile bump, and a smoother key travel, then the TTC Silent Brown switch is the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound level. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and environment for a more comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.