TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between tactile and linear switches. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced nature, offering a slight but satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. They also produce a softer, rounded sound profile compared to many other switches. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switches do not have a specific standout feature but are known for their durability and resistance to dust. If you prefer a switch with a tactile feedback and a distinct sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the way to go. However, if you prioritize durability and a smoother keystroke experience, the Dustproof Black could be the better choice. Ultimately, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will help you make the best decision for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, the difference in their bottom housing material sets them apart. The Gold Brown uses nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the Dustproof Black also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar sound experience with a more absorbing quality.
Despite both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the housing material difference in the bottom housing affects the overall typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate top housing enhances the key release sound. This split in housing materials provides a nuanced typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Black offer a unique combination of housing materials that affect the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the different bottom housing materials create distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing offers a similar sound with a more absorbing quality. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences in sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dustproof Black's 60 grams. However, the Gold Brown requires a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams in comparison to the Dustproof Black's 80 grams. This means that while the Gold Brown may feel lighter to activate, it requires more pressure to fully press down the key. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black may feel slightly heavier to activate but provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience based on personal preferences for lighter or heavier key presses.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, they provide different typing experiences due to their tactile and linear characteristics, respectively. The Gold Brown offers a tactile bump while the Dustproof Black provides a smoother keystroke. Therefore, while the travel distance may be equal, the typing feel and feedback will differ between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
The Outemu Dustproof 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
Overall, when comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is important to note that the Gold Brown offers a balanced and satisfying typing experience with a moderate bump and weightiness, resulting in a softer sound profile. In contrast, information about the Dustproof Black switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the Gold Brown's qualities, one can expect a neutral sound and a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel. Keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for your needs, and it is recommended to try out different switches to see which one resonates with you the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a balanced switch with a moderate actuation force and a gentle typing experience, the Gold Brown would be a great choice. The slight bump and softer sound profile make it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a linear feel and a more pronounced keystroke, the Dustproof Black may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it's important to consider your typing habits and preferences when deciding between these two switches.
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