TTC Gold Brown vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Yellow Silver, a linear switch. These switches offer different characteristics that cater to various preferences. The Gold Brown switches are well-known for their balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump during keystrokes. They also have a moderate weightiness to them, offering a comfortable typing experience. In terms of sound, these switches have a rounded profile that is softer compared to most switches, but not entirely silent. The Yellow Silver switches, on the other hand, are highly regarded for their light actuation force and neutral sound profile. These switches are particularly favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, let's dive deeper into their specifics so that you can determine the best switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits when using either switch.
However, the differences lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Gold Brown utilizes nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon has a softer composition compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound. As a result, the Gold Brown switch produces a duller and rounder sound, which some typists may prefer. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning it shares similar sound characteristics with the Gold Brown switch. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a deeper and fuller sound experience, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on the part of the keypress. The bottom housing mainly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, the overall typing experience may still yield similar results. Both switches offer their unique blend of sound profiles, with the polycarbonate top housing delivering a sharp and crisp sound, and the nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, whereas the Yellow Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Gold Brown will require a bit more pressure to register a keystroke compared to the Yellow Silver.
In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Yellow Silver has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that when typing with the Gold Brown, one will feel a more substantial resistance as they press the keys all the way down, whereas the Yellow Silver will have a slightly lighter and smoother typing feel.
Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, but the Gold Brown can be considered on the higher side of medium while the Yellow Silver leans towards the lighter end.
Considering the impact of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Yellow Silver more suitable as it has a lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter feel can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push and more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch. However, if one prefers a lighter feel, the Yellow Silver can provide similar results with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is also 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance, providing similar results 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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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, both the TTC Gold Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches have a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound, making them suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild typing experience. This means it provides a gentle and approachable feel, falling in the safe middle-ground zone of switch characteristics. Additionally, it is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Gold Brown switch is also accented, meaning it has a medium amount of tactility that is noticeable but not overwhelming. Lastly, the switch is described as polished, which implies a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. However, since it is a linear switch, it lacks the tactile bump of the Gold Brown switch. Linear switches generally provide a smoother keystroke experience without the tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer a neutral sound profile. However, the Gold Brown switch stands out with its mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, providing a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. While the feel of the Yellow Silver switch is unknown, being a linear switch, it can be expected to provide a smooth and responsive typing experience. If you prefer a balanced switch with a slight bump and weightiness, the Gold Brown switch would be an excellent choice. If you lean towards a lighter actuation force and prefer a speedier and more responsive experience, the Yellow Silver switch may be more suitable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced and satisfying typing experience, then the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a moderate weightiness and a slight bump, resulting in a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel. Additionally, they have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches, making them ideal for both home and work environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a speedier and more responsive switch, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, this switch is particularly favored by gamers and typists who value speed and precision. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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