TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue mechanical keyboard switches, one must consider the distinct characteristics of each. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that offers subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump, ideal for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying click sound with each press, perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Brown Pro being smooth, thocky, low-pitched, silky, mild, neutral, subtle, and stepped, while the Milk Blue has a different categorization. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Milk Blue switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic experience from both switches.
However, the Gold Brown Pro and the Milk Blue switches differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Milk Blue also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic in bottom housing material ensures that users can enjoy a consistent sound quality and typing experience from both switches.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. This distinction in housing material placement highlights how each component contributes uniquely to the overall typing experience of the switches, allowing users to appreciate the nuances of their preferred switch.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is hard to compare their heaviness in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro may appeal to those who prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience, while the heavier actuation force of the Milk Blue might be more suitable for those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the TTC Gold Brown Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Milk Blue. The difference may not be significant, but it could impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a faster response time may opt for the TTC Gold Brown Pro, while individuals who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Outemu Milk Blue. Overall, both switches offer a decent travel distance that falls within the average range of tactile switches on the market.
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 Milk Blue 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
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a quieter and more understated typing experience with its subtle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more low-key input method without sacrificing feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have specific information available at this time, but typically clicky switches are known for their loud and pronounced tactile feedback. While the Gold Brown Pro provides a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped feel, the exact feel of the Milk Blue remains unknown. For users looking for a switch that offers a gentle typing experience with minimal distraction, the Gold Brown Pro would be a suitable choice. If the user enjoys a more tactile and clicky typing experience, the Milk Blue may provide a more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more subtle approach and the Milk Blue potentially delivering a more pronounced typing feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle tactile feedback with a quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro may be the ideal choice for you. This switch is polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a refined typing experience with minimal distraction. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced clicky sound with a distinct tactile bump, the Milk Blue switch could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.