TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, two distinct choices in the world of mechanical keyboards emerge. The Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced feel, offering a slight but satisfying bump and moderate weightiness, accompanied by a softer sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch remains relatively unknown, with little information available. While the Gold Brown switch provides a tactile experience suitable for those who enjoy a responsive and accented keystroke, the Dustproof Red switch's lack of information leaves its benefits up for exploration. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Both the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a visually appealing aesthetic while maintaining consistent sound performance.
In contrast, the Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the switch is actuated. Similarly, the Dustproof Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing emphasizes the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. This distribution of housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon for optimal sound performance and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Red is the lighter option. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Dustproof Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range, but the Dustproof Red requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Gold Brown. This means that the Dustproof Red may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a slightly heavier touch, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. 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 Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The tactile feedback of the Gold Brown may provide a different typing experience compared to the linear feel of the Dustproof Red, but in terms of travel distance, they offer similar results. Overall, both switches offer a standard 4 mm travel distance, providing a consistent 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 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
In terms of sound, the Gold Brown and Dustproof Red switches offer different auditory experiences. The Gold Brown switch has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes and users. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Dustproof Red switch are unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience due to its balanced tactile bump and moderate weightiness. This switch offers a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation that is approachable to most users. The Dustproof Red switch's feel is not described, making it challenging to assess the differences in tactile feedback between the two switches.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced and satisfying typing experience with a rounded sound profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, while lacking specific information on its sound and feel, may provide a different typing experience altogether. If you are looking for a switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a gentle typing feel, the Gold Brown switch is a reliable choice. However, for those seeking a linear switch with dustproof features, the Dustproof Red switch may offer a unique alternative, although further research or testing may be necessary to fully compare the two options.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a balanced switch with a medium bottom out force, a slight bump, and a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Dustproof Red could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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