Outemu Red vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch for your mechanical keyboard, there are some key differences to consider. The Red switch is best known for its smooth linear feel, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming and typing with its consistent keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch from TTC offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, the Silent Brown switch is noted for its muted sound profile, making it a great option for those who prefer 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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 Red and TTC Silent Brown switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, despite their similarities in top housing material, the Outemu Red and TTC Silent Brown switches differ in their bottom housings.
While the Red switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Silent Brown switch also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of housing materials in both switches allows for a balanced typing experience, with the qualities of the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Outemu Red and TTC Silent Brown switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. While the polycarbonate top housings create a sharp and defined typing experience, the nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound quality. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Red switch or a rounder sound with the Silent Brown switch, both options offer a high-quality typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Red switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 45 grams, making it slightly lighter. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Brown requires 63.5 grams, making it heavier than the Red switch's 62 grams. This means that while both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, the Silent Brown provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch to type for extended periods, the Outemu Red switch would be the better option. Conversely, individuals looking for a more robust typing experience may lean towards the TTC Silent Brown switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu 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. While the difference may seem minimal, it can impact the overall feel and experience of typing or gaming. In this case, the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Red. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the TTC Silent Brown, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the Outemu Red. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance can cater to different 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 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 Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different experiences. The Red switch is known for producing a standard mechanical keyboard sound, while the Silent Brown switch provides a muted sound profile that minimizes noise, making it a great option for quieter environments. However, it's important to note that sound can vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps in use.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Red switch doesn't have a specific descriptor, while the TTC Silent Brown switch is often described as buttery, mild, and polished. This indicates that the Silent Brown switch offers a smooth and fluid typing experience with a gentle tactile bump, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The polished finish also contributes to a sleek and refined feel, as well as reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Red switch may lean towards a more generic typing experience without any specific standout characteristics.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a linear switch with a standard mechanical keyboard sound, the Outemu Red switch may be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a comfortable and tactile feel, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be a better option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so choosing between them would depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a lighter touch, you may want to choose the Outemu Red linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile response with a bit more resistance and a quieter typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be a great option for you. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, as well as how much resistance you prefer when typing. Make your decision based on what will provide you with the most comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
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