Outemu Phoenix vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Silent Brown are two popular options that are worth considering. The Phoenix stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it the most distinct clicky switch available. Its crystalline and sparkling feel, combined with its satisfying click sound, sets it apart from other clicky switches in the market. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets them apart is their muted sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Silent Brown share similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Phoenix or the Silent Brown, you can expect similar results in terms of the sound profile and its compatibility with RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Phoenix differs from the Silent Brown. The Phoenix features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a sharper and more pronounced bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prioritize a sharper bottom-out sound and feel, the Phoenix would be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile, you may prefer the Silent Brown with its nylon bottom housing.
In summary, the top housing of both the Outemu Phoenix and the TTC Silent Brown is made of polycarbonate, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile suitable for switches featuring RGB lighting. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Phoenix utilizing polycarbonate and the Silent Brown using nylon. The Phoenix's stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper bottom-out sound and feel, while the Silent Brown's softer nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, your preference for either a sharper or deeper sound profile should guide your choice between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are several notable differences. Firstly, the actuation force of the Phoenix switch is unknown, while the Silent Brown requires a force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Phoenix switch has a moderate force of 62 grams, whereas the Silent Brown switch is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category.
Considering their weight, the Phoenix switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, enabling them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who use their keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation force. This can be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push, resulting in a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
It is important to note that if both switches have the same forces, their results and effects on typing will be similar. However, when comparing the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the Phoenix is lighter in terms of actuation force and the Silent Brown is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. These differences provide users with a variety of options to choose from based on their personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Silent Brown has a slightly longer distance compared to the Phoenix. The Phoenix offers a 3.3 mm travel distance, which is shorter and may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Brown with its 3.8 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which some individuals might find more satisfying. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches depends on personal preferences in terms of responsiveness and keypress depth.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique and distinct experience. With its under-skirt click mechanism, these switches produce a sound profile described as "crunchy." This sound is often compared to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a more muted sound profile. This type of switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound produced by these switches is softer and quieter, creating a more subdued typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a polished typing experience. The term "polished" indicates that these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek key travel with reduced friction. This smoothness contributes to a polished typing sensation that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a buttery, mild, and polished feel. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild characteristic of these switches ensures a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe and middle-ground zone. Both switches share the attribute of being polished, meaning they offer smooth and refined finishes resulting in smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix clicky switch produces a unique, crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, while the Silent Brown switch offers a more muted sound profile, reducing the overall noise associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch provides a polished typing experience with reduced friction, while the Silent Brown switch offers a buttery, mild, and polished feel, providing a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Both switches share the characteristic of being polished, ensuring smooth key travel. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and captivating typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be a great choice for you. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a more comfortable and quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. It provides a light-medium level of resistance with a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and its muted sound profile minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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