TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and Outemu Gold offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown is praised for its balanced nature, providing a satisfying tactile bump and moderate weightiness. Its rounded sound profile is softer than most switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature. However, its clicky sound may appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Each switch offers unique qualities that may suit different preferences, but diving deeper into their characteristics will ultimately help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Gold switches have some distinct differences. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Outemu Gold also utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. Both switches are likely to provide a clear and resonant sound due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. However, the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Outemu Gold's nylon bottom housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gold Brown and the Outemu Gold switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housing. While this may result in a more absorbing and quieter typing experience, the specific qualities of the bottom housing material will still play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that both switches are likely to offer a combination of sharper, higher-pitched sounds from the polycarbonate top housing and deeper, fuller sounds from the nylon bottom housing.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Gold Brown and the Outemu Gold switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The clear housing of polycarbonate allows for a visually appealing light show when paired with RGB effects, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. While the nylon bottom housing may not offer the same visual appeal, it does contribute to a more rounded and muffled sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials. Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches results in a unique sound and feel that caters to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams. Both switches have a medium-level bottom out force, with the Gold Brown at 63 grams and the Gold at 60 grams. This means that while the Gold Brown may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force, the difference in bottom out force between the two switches is minimal. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may favor the Outemu Gold clicky switch for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a firmer push feel may opt for the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equals in this aspect. This means that users will experience the same amount of key travel when using either switch. The travel distance of 4mm is a standard distance for many mechanical switches and provides a balance between tactile feedback and typing speed. Both switches will offer a satisfying typing experience with a moderate key travel distance, allowing for comfortable and accurate typing. Overall, whether you choose the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 Gold 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 sound profile that is moderate and suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any specific sound description available at this time. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience with a balanced bump that offers a moderate weightiness. This switch also offers a polished and accented tactile feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Conversely, no specific feel description is available for the Outemu Gold clicky switch.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced and approachable typing experience with a moderate sound profile and smooth key travel. While the Outemu Gold clicky switch may offer a different experience due to its clicky nature, without specific information on its sound and feel, it is recommended to test out both switches to determine which best suits your preferences. Ultimately, both switches may provide satisfactory results depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a well-balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a soft sound profile, the Gold Brown would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a clicky sound and a lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Gold clicky switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider your typing habits and preferences before making a decision.
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