TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it's important to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The TTC Gold Brown is renowned for its balanced nature, offering a slight but satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. This switch also features a softer sound profile compared to many other switches, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is known for its clicky feedback without any specific standout features. While the Gold Brown is ideal for users who appreciate a tactile feel with a softer sound, the Dustproof Blue may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced clicking sensation. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Outemu Dustproof Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this housing material, the actual design and construction of the switch may impact the overall sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Dustproof Blue also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers the same qualities of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing has a direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the TTC Gold Brown and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches showcases a balance of stiff and soft plastics to create a unique sound profile. While the two switches share similar housing materials, the placement of these materials within the switch design may affect the overall typing experience. Whether it be the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, each housing material brings its own characteristics to enhance the overall feel and sound of the switch.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown requires 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, while the Dustproof Blue needs 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. This makes the Dustproof Blue slightly lighter to actuate but heavier to bottom out compared to the Gold Brown. The Gold Brown offers a slightly lighter typing experience which may benefit those looking for longer typing sessions, while the Dustproof Blue provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent typing experiences when using keyboards with either of these switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches adds to the tactile feedback and overall typing feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gold Brown offers a neutral experience with a moderate actuation force requirement and a soft sound profile, making it versatile for various usage scenarios. On the other hand, details about the sound profile of the Dustproof Blue are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Brown switch is described as having a mild and buttery tactile feel, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the switch is accented with a noticeable tactile bump that is not overwhelming. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch. Hence, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches based on their feel.
Taking into consideration the information available, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch seems to offer a balanced and moderate typing experience with a soft sound profile and a buttery, mild feel. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are unknown, making it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If similar results are desired, opting for the Gold Brown may be a reliable choice based on the available information.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a well-balanced switch with a medium bottom out force, a slight bump, and a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown would be a good choice. It offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most users. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue may be more suitable. Although the sound and feel of the Dustproof Blue were not explicitly described, it is known for its durability and dustproof design. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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