TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Black, a linear switch. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is renowned for its subtle and nuanced feedback, providing typists with a gentle tactile bump that allows for immersive typing experiences without being too obtrusive. Its quiet sound profile adds to the overall understated tactile experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch is known for its linear actuation without any tactile bump, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke feel. While the Gold Brown Pro is best suited for those who value a gentle tactile presence, the Outemu Black is preferred by users who seek a straightforward and responsive 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Black switches share some similarities in terms of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in 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. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, where the switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Black's nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can influence the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, providing a unique typing experience for users.
Overall, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the use of different bottom housing materials (nylon for Gold Brown Pro and Outemu Black) can impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings contributes to distinct sound profiles for each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Users can choose between the two switches based on their preference for a sharper, crisper sound (TTC Gold Brown Pro) or a deeper, fuller sound (Outemu Black).
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Gold Brown Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Black's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unknown, while the Black has a heavy bottom out force of 82 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown Pro, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch is more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer unique tactile feedback and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its faster key presses, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Outemu Black with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, catering to individual preferences for keyboard feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched sound profile that remains neutral, making it suitable for a variety of environments. When it comes to feel, this switch offers a polished, silky typing experience that is mild and subtle, allowing for a smooth and refined keypress. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the Gold Brown Pro. However, based on the information provided, it is likely that the Black switch may offer a different tactile and auditory experience compared to the subtle and nuanced qualities of the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more understated and immersive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a typist who values a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with minimal distraction, then the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile allow you to stay in the zone without being overtly reminded of each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a linear switch without any tactile feedback, then the Outemu Black switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and bottom out force. Choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and work environment.
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