Outemu Purple vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Purple and TTC Silent Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they both offer a tactile typing experience. The Purple is categorized as tactile, while the Silent Brown is best known for its buttery, mild, muted, polished feel. The Silent Brown switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, creating a muted sound profile that many users appreciate. However, let's delve 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
N/A
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 Purple and TTC Silent Brown switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those interested in using RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and colorful effects to shine through.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing material. The Purple switch's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Brown, due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. While the top housing material may impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, particularly in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In essence, the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and TTC Silent Brown switches work in tandem to create a unique typing experience. While both feature a polycarbonate top housing for sharper and crisper sound profiles, it is the difference in the nylon bottom housing that sets them apart. The deeper and fuller sound produced by the Purple's nylon bottom housing contrasts with the slightly quieter and softer sound of the Silent Brown, showcasing how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall feel and sound of a mechanical switch.
Weight
The Outemu Purple and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Purple has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown's 45 grams, making the Silent Brown lighter in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Brown at 63.5 grams is heavier than the Purple, which has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer lighter actuation forces may lean towards the Silent Brown, while those who prefer a heavier typing experience may opt for the Purple. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple 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. This means that the Outemu Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Silent Brown switch. For those who prefer a more responsive feel with less travel distance, the TTC Silent Brown switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a longer travel distance, the Outemu Purple switch might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision 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 Purple 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 Purple tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor available for its sound profile. However, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is well-known for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes the Silent Brown a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience, making it ideal for use in shared or quiet environments.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor available for its typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. With a mild level of resistance and a polished finish, the Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable and approachable typing sensation that is sure to please a wide range of users. The reduced friction and smooth key travel of the Silent Brown switch contribute to its overall polished feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a muted sound profile and a buttery smooth feel, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be an excellent choice. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Purple switch are not detailed in the provided information, it is safe to assume that both switches would offer a similar level of tactile feedback and actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a switch with a lighter touch and a unique bottom out force, the Outemu Purple might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with muted sound, the TTC Silent Brown switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing comfort. Happy typing!
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