TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, a linear switch. The Gold Browns are known for their balance, featuring a slight bump and moderate weightiness, providing a satisfying typing experience. They also have a softer sound profile compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean is a linear switch that lacks a distinct tactile bump, offering a smoother keystroke. While the Gold Brown may be preferred for its tactile feedback and balanced feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may appeal to those seeking a quieter 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switches. While both switches share this commonality in their top housing material, they also differ in their bottom housing material.
The Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities in sound profile when typing. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing highlights how both switches prioritize sound quality and user experience in their design.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean showcase how these switches aim to cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing further enhances the typing experience by either creating a deeper and fuller sound (Gold Brown) or a duller and rounder sound (Dustproof Silent Ocean). These nuanced differences in housing materials highlight the thoughtfulness that goes into the design of mechanical keyboard switches to cater to various user preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Gold Brown slightly lighter in actuation force but heavier in bottom out force compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dustproof Silent Ocean, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance for different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Brown switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gold Brown switch with a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Silent Ocean 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 TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a neutral profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience with a balanced bump and moderate weightiness. Additionally, it offers a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing sensation. As for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, the feel is unknown.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch seems to offer a balanced and satisfying typing experience with a moderate sound profile and approachable feel. If the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch are similar to those of the Gold Brown switch, then users can expect to enjoy a comparable typing experience with both switches. Ultimately, the best switch choice will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a balanced switch with a moderate bump and weightiness, the Gold Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Happy typing!
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