TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that they offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gold Brown Pro is praised for its subtle and nuanced feedback, providing a gentle tactile bump that allows for an immersive typing experience without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red is characterized by its lack of a tactile bump, offering a smooth and linear keystroke with a focus on consistency and precision. While the Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who prefer a quiet and understated typing experience, the Dustproof Red may appeal to users who prioritize a consistent feel across all keystrokes. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Dustproof Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. However, the nylon bottom housings of the Gold Brown Pro and Dustproof Red differ slightly, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound.
Despite the similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Outemu Dustproof Red switches diverge when it comes to their bottom housing materials. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, each has its unique qualities that impact the overall typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing elicits a duller and rounder sound profile, contributing to a softer typing feel. In contrast, the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing offers a similar deep and full sound profile but may bring a slightly different tactile response.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of each keystroke. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing the key. Despite these differences, both the Gold Brown Pro and Dustproof Red switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Red is heavier with 60 grams compared to the unavailable bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro. This means that the Dustproof Red will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The difference in bottom out force may affect the typing experience for users, as some may find the lighter bottom out force more comfortable for extended periods of typing, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing pressure and comfort.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Red. In terms of typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro may provide a quicker response time for gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Red may offer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Dustproof Red 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 sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" with a low-pitched and neutral tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics listed, indicating it may produce a standard linear switch sound. In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience, with smooth key travel and a gentle resistance. In comparison, the feel of the Dustproof Red switch is unknown. Overall, if you prefer a tactile switch with a thocky sound and polished feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be the ideal choice. However, if the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch align with your preferences, it may also provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro would be a great choice. Its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile make it ideal for those who want minimal distraction while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and linear actuation, the Dustproof Red may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound profile or prefer a linear and medium actuation force. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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