TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Brown mechanical keyboard switches, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preferences and specific needs. The Gold Brown is highly regarded for its balanced nature, providing a slight tactile bump and moderate weightiness that many users find satisfying. With a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches, the Gold Brown is categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, accented, and polished. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown doesn't have any standout features but is considered reliable and durable. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, delving deeper into the nuances of each switch will ultimately help you determine the best fit for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is especially beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, these two switches are very similar when it comes to their top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the TTC Gold Brown uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to stiffer plastics, as it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will have a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when bottoming out keys, as the nylon material in the bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping this aspect of the typing experience.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housing. The combination of a stiffer top housing and a softer bottom housing in the Gold Brown switch may result in a more balanced sound profile, whereas the Dustproof Brown may have a slightly deeper and fuller sound due to both housings being made of nylon. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users may prefer one switch over the other based on the material composition of their respective housing components.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that they both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Dustproof Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Gold Brown offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for prolonged use, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown provides a stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and the intended use of the keyboard.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, meaning they offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures that users can expect comparable results when typing on either switch. Despite their similarities in this aspect, it is worth noting that both switches offer a smooth and tactile typing experience, with the Gold Brown being slightly shorter and the Dustproof Brown being slightly longer in terms of actuation depth. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming needs.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a balanced and neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch's sound profile is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch provides a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle and smooth keystroke with a noticeable but not overwhelming tactile bump. The feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is unspecified. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience that falls within a safe and approachable middle ground for most users.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown switch provides a balanced sound profile and a mild, buttery feel, while the specific characteristics of the Dustproof Brown switch remain unknown. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can expect similar results in overall typing experience with either switch. It's recommended to try out both switches to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced tactile switch with a moderate bottom out force, the TTC Gold Brown switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness, making it suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. On the other hand, if you are in need of a medium-heavy tactile switch with a bottom out force slightly higher than the Gold Brown, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision.