Outemu Dustproof Red vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red 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 Red and TTC Silent Brown offer distinct experiences for users. The Dustproof Red is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Brown is a tactile switch, providing users with a comfortable typing experience thanks to its light-medium resistance and satisfying rounded tactile bump. Additionally, the Silent Brown stands out for its muted sound profile, making it a great option for those in need of 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the TTC Silent Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches offer a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both the Dustproof Red and the Silent Brown provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material is a classic choice for switch housings, offering a unique typing experience that is appreciated by many users for its satisfying sound feedback.
While the top and bottom housings of these switches offer different sound profiles, the overall typing experience is influenced by both materials. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing the key. Ultimately, both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the TTC Silent Brown provide unique sound profiles and typing experiences that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The actuation force of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the same at 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Dustproof Red requires 60 grams, making it lighter compared to the Silent Brown which requires 63.5 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter key press may opt for the Dustproof Red, while those who enjoy a firmer keystroke may lean towards the Silent Brown. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of comparison, the Dustproof Red has a slightly longer travel distance than the Silent Brown. The difference may not be much, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Silent Brown due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Dustproof Red. Ultimately, both options offer a respectable travel distance that will provide a satisfactory typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
The Outemu Dustproof Red 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 Red linear switch does not have a specific descriptor available for its sound characteristics. However, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile. A muted switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, making it a great option for those looking for a more discreet typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. A buttery switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, while the mild characteristics offer a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Red's sound and feel characteristics are not specified, the Silent Brown switch is known for its muted sound profile and buttery, mild, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, the Dustproof Red may provide a different typing experience compared to the Silent Brown switch. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth and gentle keystroke, both switches may offer similar results due to their notable qualities.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are less concerned with sound, the Outemu Dustproof Red switches may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing habits.
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