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Outemu Red vs. TTC Silent Red

An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and TTC Silent Red both offer a linear typing experience that many users enjoy. The Outemu Red switch is known for its simplicity and consistency, making it a reliable choice for those who prefer a straightforward linear switch. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch stands out for its noise-reducing capabilities, providing a quieter typing experience that is perfect for shared spaces or office environments. The Silent Red switch also offers a smooth and comfortable typing feel, with a padded bottom-out for added comfort. 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

1.90 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.70 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

The Outemu Red and TTC Silent Red switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic used in the housing contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, the Red switch gives off a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The nylon bottom housing in the Silent Red switch also provides a similar effect, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing.

In terms of material composition, the Outemu Red and TTC Silent Red switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a consistent sharp, higher-pitched sound profile and aesthetic appeal for both switches. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Red switch utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Red switch also opts for nylon to create a duller and rounder sound. Despite this variation, the nylon bottom housing in both switches showcases the ability of softer plastics to absorb sound, impacting the overall sound profile and feel of the switch.

Overall, the housing materials in the Outemu Red and TTC Silent Red switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While both feature a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, the difference in their nylon bottom housing affects the depth and roundness of the sound emitted. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings highlight how each material contributes differently to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, understanding the unique properties of each housing material can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the switch that best fits their preferred sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some differences to consider. The Outemu Red switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the TTC Silent Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, but the TTC Silent Red switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, making it medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Outemu Red switch may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the TTC Silent Red switch. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for typing feedback and force requirements.

Travel distance

The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making the Outemu Red the longer option. The Outemu Red switch provides a slightly deeper keypress compared to the TTC Silent Red switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the TTC Silent Red switch. Those who enjoy a more substantial keypress might find the longer travel distance of the Outemu Red switch more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.

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

Overall, when comparing the Outemu Red linear switch to the TTC Silent Red linear switch, the Silent Red stands out for its muted sound profile while still providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. The Outemu Red switch lacks a distinct quality in terms of sound or feel, making it a more standard option. In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, providing a fluid and refined typing experience. Both switches offer a linear feel without tactile feedback, but the Silent Red switch goes the extra mile in providing a comfortable and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize a quiet typing environment and a smooth keystroke, the TTC Silent Red switch would likely be the better choice for you.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, you should consider your environment and preferences. If you prioritize a noise-free typing experience and enjoy a padded bottom-out feel for added comfort, the TTC Silent Red switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a straightforward linear switch with medium bottom out force and do not mind the noise, the Outemu Red switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize sound, feel, and the overall typing experience.

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