Outemu Crystal vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Gold Pink both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Crystal switches provide a linear typing experience that is both elastic and medium-light in weight, resulting in a typing feel like no other. With a neutral sound profile, these switches are perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switches offer a fast and effortless typing experience with a low 37g actuation force, making them ideal for rapid typing or gaming. These switches also provide a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. While the Crystal switches are chirpy and high-pitched, the Gold Pinks offer a buttery and mild feel. In short, both switches have their own strengths and choosing the best one for you will depend on your personal preference. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the TTC Gold Pink switches share many similarities in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Crystal and Gold Pink switches are likely to produce similar sound profiles and have visually appealing translucent top housings.
However, a significant difference lies in the housing materials used for the bottom housings of these switches. The Outemu Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the TTC Gold Pink utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound and feel of the Gold Pink switch will be influenced by its nylon bottom housing, providing a different experience compared to the Crystal switch.
In summary, the main contrast between the Outemu Crystal and TTC Gold Pink switches lies in their bottom housing materials. While both switches share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, the Gold Pink distinguishes itself with the use of a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite this difference, both switches are likely to provide satisfactory results in terms of sound and aesthetics, with the top housing material primarily influencing the sound upon key release and the bottom housing material affecting the bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, there are notable differences. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it affects the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch, such as the Gold Pink, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Crystal switch, with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces, provides a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. This may be preferred by users who enjoy a tactile feedback and desire a more pronounced keystroke sensation.
It is worth noting that if both switches have the same actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect similar results in terms of the typing experience. However, in this case, it is evident that the Gold Pink switch is the lighter option, while the Crystal switch offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience one is seeking.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard, as it directly affects the typing experience. In the case of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience a similar distance and feel for both switches. This similarity in travel distance ensures that whether one chooses the Outemu Crystal or the TTC Gold Pink switch, they can expect comparable results in terms of typing comfort and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. It is described as chirpy, meaning it has a little squeak to them, and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This particular sound profile is ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch does not have a specific description of its sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is possible to achieve similar sound profiles by pairing the Gold Pink switch with specific boards and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gold Pink switch, on the other hand, is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is also categorized as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Furthermore, it is feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, it is described as subtle, having a gentle resistance that still maintains a light typing feel, and polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant and smooth typing experience, with the Gold Pink providing a lighter and more effortless feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch have distinct qualities but offer similar subjective experiences in certain aspects. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, with the Crystal switch having a medium-light weight and the Gold Pink switch being one of the lightest available. In terms of sound, the Crystal switch has a unique chirpy and high-pitched profile, while the Gold Pink switch does not have a specific description. However, achieving similar sound profiles can be accomplished by considering other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, newcomers can expect a pleasant typing experience from both switches, with the Crystal switch offering a more unique and lively feel, and the Gold Pink switch providing a lighter and effortless typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and offer a neutral sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. These switches are designed for rapid typing or gaming and provide a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. In terms of sound, the Crystal switches have a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, while the Gold Pink switches don't have a specific sound description. When it comes to feel, the Crystal switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Gold Pink switches are described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and also have a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and TTC Gold Pink switches depends on your preference for weight, sound, and feel.
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