Outemu Tom vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch, and the TTC Silent Red, a linear switch, the decision could depend on your specific preferences. The Tom switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with every key press. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is highly regarded for its silent operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience, the Tom switch may be the way to go. However, if you value a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Silent Red switch could be the better option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Tom Tactile

TTC Silent Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Tom and the TTC Silent Red both incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches planning to utilize RGB lighting. However, since both switches use the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and performance in this aspect.

On the other hand, the Tom and the Silent Red differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing, with the Tom featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Silent Red also using nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience with regards to sound profile when pressing down on the keys.

In summary, while the top housing material of the Outemu Tom and the TTC Silent Red is identical with polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials differ slightly with both switches opting for nylon. This results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when pressing down on the keys, as nylon absorbs sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, differences may be observed in the sound when letting go of a key, as the top housing material can have a significant impact on the sound produced.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the Tom has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Silent Red's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Red is heavier at 63.5 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Red would be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom would be more suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing feel. Overall, the weight of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience, with lighter switches being ideal for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel.

Travel distance

The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Tom has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Red. The shorter travel distance of the Tom switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Red switch might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a specific descriptor, indicating that its sound profile may vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its muted sound profile. This means that the Silent Red switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to other mechanical switches, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a specific descriptor, leaving its tactile feel open to interpretation. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Silent Red switch is categorized as mild, offering a gentle typing sensation that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. Lastly, the switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for an overall sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch's characteristics may vary, the Silent Red switch is known for its muted sound and buttery, mild, and polished feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different needs and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a smooth and comfortable feel, the Silent Red switches are the way to go. These switches are ideal for office or shared spaces where noise can be a concern. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a specific bottom out force and are not concerned with noise levels, the Tom tactile switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, choosing the right switch comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing setup.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more