Outemu Silent White vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White and the TTC Silent Brown offer unique typing experiences for users to consider. The Silent White is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Silent Brown is a tactile switch, providing a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump and light-medium resistance. While the Silent White is best for those looking for a silent typing experience, the Silent Brown is ideal for individuals who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. 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
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the TTC Silent Brown switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is also noted for its translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This similarity in material for the top housing implies that both switches will likely produce a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Silent White and the Silent Brown switches use nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite utilizing different bottom housing materials, the Silent White and Silent Brown switches will both offer a similar typing experience with regards to the sound produced at the bottom-out phase.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Outemu Silent White and TTC Silent Brown switches may have similar top housing made of polycarbonate, the different bottom housing materials will influence the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users will require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke with either switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Silent White has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams, making it lighter than the TTC Silent Brown, which has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly different typing experience for users, with the Outemu Silent White feeling lighter and the TTC Silent Brown feeling slightly heavier. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Outemu Silent White for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the TTC Silent Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Silent White has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Brown. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switches when typing or gaming. Those who prefer faster response times may favor the Silent White with its shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a more substantial press may opt for the Silent Brown with its longer travel distance. However, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance despite the difference in travel distance.
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 Silent White 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
The Outemu Silent White linear switch is known for its lack of specific descriptors in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is praised for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. This makes the Silent Brown switches a great option for those looking for a more discreet keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent White switches do not have any specific descriptors to go off of. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switches are described as having a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, they are characterized as mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The polished finish of the Silent Brown switches also ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silent White switches may not have specific descriptors for sound and feel, the TTC Silent Brown switches are praised for their muted sound profile and buttery, polished feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but if you are looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown switches may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a silent and smooth typing experience with a medium bottom out force, you may want to choose the Outemu Silent White linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback and a light-medium level of resistance, along with a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Consider your typing preferences and the environment you'll be using the keyboard in when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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