TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer very different experiences for typists. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch, designed for those who appreciate subtle and nuanced feedback. With its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, this switch is perfect for individuals who value understated tactile experiences and minimal distraction. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch that lacks the tactile bump and offers a smooth keystroke from start to finish. While the Gold Brown Pro is best for those who want to truly immerse in their tasks, the Outemu Red may appeal to typists who prefer a consistent and linear 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red switches have both similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through. However, while the Gold Brown Pro has a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Outemu Red also features a nylon bottom housing with similar sound-absorbing qualities.
In terms of acoustic properties, the different housing materials in the Gold Brown Pro and Outemu Red switches result in a slightly varied typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Gold Brown Pro's overall sound profile may be slightly sharper and crisper due to its polycarbonate top housing, compared to the Outemu Red. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the slight differences in sound profile may appeal to different preferences.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience of the switches, it becomes clear that each component plays a significant role. The bottom housing material has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gold Brown Pro and Outemu Red switches creates a balanced typing experience with unique sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Red's 46 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Red at 62 grams is heavier compared to the Gold Brown Pro's unknown bottom out force. This means that while both switches have similar actuation forces, the Red switch offers a heavier typing experience when bottoming out. This difference in weight can cater to different preferences, with the Gold Brown Pro being more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Red switch may appeal more to those who prefer a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. A shorter travel distance can be preferred for quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and pronounced keypress for those who appreciate a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
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 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 and the Outemu Red linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile that is subtle and non-intrusive, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Red switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to draw a direct comparison. When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and a gentle tactility that is suitable for various preferences. Unfortunately, the feel of the Red switch is also unknown, making it challenging to determine how it compares to the Gold Brown Pro. Overall, if you prioritize a refined tactile feedback and a quiet typing sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would likely be the preferred choice. However, without information on the Outemu Red switch's qualities, it's hard to make a direct comparison, but it's possible that similar results in sound and feel could be achieved by considering factors such as keycaps and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a subtle and nuanced typing experience with a subdued sound profile, then the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be the ideal choice for you. The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is designed for those who value a quiet and immersive typing experience without loud distractions. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and do not require tactile feedback, then the Outemu Red linear switch would be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience (Gold Brown Pro) or prefer a smooth and medium-force linear switch (Outemu Red). Consider your personal typing preferences and work environment to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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