TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences that can cater to different typing preferences. The TKC Kiwi is renowned for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing users with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for an immersive typing experience. Additionally, the lightly factory lubed Kiwi switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have specific standout features like the Kiwi but is known for its reliability and solid tactile feedback. The Crystal Brown switch may appeal to users looking for a more straightforward and consistent 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and Outemu Crystal Brown switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Kiwi features UHWMPE top and bottom housings, which produce a very bright and resonant sound when typing. In comparison, the Crystal Brown utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer bright sound signatures, the polycarbonate of the Crystal Brown may provide a slightly higher-pitched sound compared to the UHWMPE of the Kiwi.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Kiwi's UHWMPE material continues to offer a bright sound signature, while the Crystal Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a softer and more absorbent sound compared to UHWMPE. The contrast between the two materials may result in a different typing experience and sound quality for users who prefer a specific type of sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Outemu Crystal Brown switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While both switches offer bright sound signatures, the Kiwi's UHWMPE creates a resonant clack, while the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate and nylon materials offer a sharper, higher-pitched, crisper, and fuller sound profile. Users looking for a switch with a specific sound profile may find that the choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch vary in weight. The Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams while the Crystal Brown is lighter at 55 grams. This means that typing on the Kiwi may require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke, but it will feel more substantial when bottoming out compared to the Crystal Brown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions may lean towards the Crystal Brown, while those who enjoy a more pronounced feel when typing may opt for the Kiwi. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi and Outemu Crystal Brown switches are identical, providing users with a consistent tactile feel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10.
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 Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and settings. This creates a satisfyingly snappy sound that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, the sound of a switch also depends on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Kiwi tactile switch is known for its stepped, accented, and polished feel. The stepped feature gives it a two-stage tactile feel, providing a mild bump that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Additionally, the accented tactile feedback strikes a balance between being tactile enough without being too scratchy, enhancing the typing experience. The polished finish of the Kiwi switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, further improving the overall feel. Unfortunately, the tactile characteristics of the Crystal Brown switch are unknown, so a direct comparison in terms of feel is not possible.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch stands out for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as its stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. This combination of features results in a satisfying typing experience that many users appreciate. While the qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are not as clearly defined, it can be assumed that with the Kiwi being a well-regarded tactile switch, users can expect similar positive results in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual is seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a stepped, accented, and polished feel, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the Kiwi switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile bump with a medium-light bottom out force and are not as concerned about sound and feel attributes, the Crystal Brown switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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