Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Outemu Peach offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Crystal Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Peach switch stands out for being lightweight and silenced, ideal for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience. While the Crystal Brown switch is categorized as tactile, the Peach switch falls into the category of neutral, mild, muted, subtle, polished. If you prefer a tactile typing feel, the Crystal Brown may be the right choice for you, while the Peach switch is perfect for linear lovers seeking a light and quiet 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal Brown and Outemu Peach switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. However, where they differ is in their top housing materials. The Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which produces a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Peach switch employs a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Crystal Brown.
While the bottom housing of both the Outemu Crystal Brown and Outemu Peach switches is made of nylon, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, the top housing material is where they differ significantly. The Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness, while the Peach's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. These differences in top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences when it comes to typing experiences.
In terms of how the different housing materials impact the overall typing experience, the qualities each bring to the switch are split between the top and bottom housing. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing's material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing will deliver a crisper sound upon key release, while the Peach's nylon top housing will provide a more subdued sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profiles and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that the Peach switch is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown switch. The Crystal Brown switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Peach switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Peach switch will provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch offers a more substantial typing experience with slightly heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Crystal Brown switch catering to those who prefer a medium-light touch, while the Peach switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Peach switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Crystal Brown switch. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for key feel and response time. Ultimately, selecting the switch with the travel distance that aligns with your preferences will ensure an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Peach comes in at $3.40.
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 Crystal Brown switch is known for its traditional tactile bump sound, which is satisfying and audible. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch offers a more muted and softer sound due to its special design for a quieter typing experience. The Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a bit of audible feedback, while the Peach switch is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and silent typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch provides a tactile bump that gives a noticeable feedback during typing, offering a satisfying keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch is characterized by a lighter and smoother typing feel, with a gentle keypress that is perfect for those who prefer a lightweight typing experience. The Peach switch also has a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is best suited for those who enjoy a traditional tactile bump and audible feedback during typing, while the Outemu Peach switch is ideal for individuals looking for a lightweight, silent, and smooth typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on the individual's preference for sound and feel. Regardless of the choice made, both switches from Outemu provide high-quality performance and durability for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a versatile sound and feel profile, the Outemu Crystal Brown would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight linear switch with a bottom out force on the lighter side, as well as a muted sound profile and subtle typing feel, the Outemu Peach would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your preference for tactile versus linear switches, as well as your desired typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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