TTC Gold Pink vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer a unique typing experience are the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Lime. The Gold Pink is a linear switch with a 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. This allows for a fast and effortless typing experience, perfect for both rapid typing and gaming. Additionally, the Gold Pink provides satisfying feedback with its clacky sound. On the other hand, the Lime switches are known for being lightweight and feature an approachable tactility. They are also silenced, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Lime switches offer a feathery light typing experience, with just a touch of tactility for tactile fans. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Lime have different housing materials for both the top and bottom housings of the switch. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Lime has a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences, both switches with their respective top housings will be beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to their translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Pink and Lime utilize nylon as their material. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
When considering the impact of the housing material on the sound when letting go of a key, the top housing plays a crucial role. With the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Pink, users can expect a distinct, sharp, and resonant sound when they release a key. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Lime will deliver a deeper and fuller sound upon key release. Therefore, the sound profile when releasing keys will differ depending on the switch chosen.
In summary, the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Lime differ in their housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound while the Lime's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile upon bottoming out. The impact of the housing material on the sound when releasing a key will also differ between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lime has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that both switches require a gentle touch to initiate a keystroke, allowing for comfortable and effortless typing. The similarities in bottom out force indicate that the typing experience will feel equally satisfying with either switch, as both provide the same level of resistance when pressing the keys all the way down. However, for those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the Lime may be the better option as it has a marginally lower actuation force. Conversely, the Gold Pink may be preferred by individuals who desire a slightly more substantial typing feel, as it requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant tactile experience while still allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Pink has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Lime's 3.3 mm. The Gold Pink falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Lime offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances can feel more abrupt to some individuals. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those seeking a deeper, more substantial feel may opt for the Gold Pink, while those prioritizing quick response times may lean towards the Lime.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The Outemu Lime (V3) 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, the TTC Gold Pink switch is described as clacky, offering a satisfying level of feedback. This means that when you press the keys, you will hear a distinct and lively sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch is described as having a neutral and muted sound profile. This means that the Lime switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to the Gold Pink switch, making it more suitable for shared spaces or for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you're looking for a more pronounced and lively sound, the Gold Pink will deliver that, while the Lime switch provides a more subtle and muted typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Lime switches offer a variety of descriptions that indicate a light and comfortable typing experience. The Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptions imply that the Gold Pink switch provides a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. It's exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Lime switch, on the other hand, is also described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a light actuation force. Like the Gold Pink switch, the Lime switch also reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience. Both switches have qualities that stand in the safe middle-ground zone, ensuring a pleasant feel for most users.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Lime switches have their own unique subjective qualities. The Gold Pink switch is known for its light actuation force, clacky sound, and buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. It offers a lively and effortless typing experience, perfect for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lime switch is characterized by its lightweight, approachable tactility, and muted sound. It provides a gentle and comfortable typing experience, ideal for tactile fans who prefer a feathery light touch. While they have some similarities in terms of feel, the Gold Pink offering a more pronounced feedback and the Lime switch providing a more muted sound, they both aim to deliver a light and pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and lively typing experience with a satisfying level of feedback, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. With its 37g actuation force, these switches offer a fast and effortless typing experience, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming. The Gold Pinks deliver a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is the better choice. These switches are incredibly unique, offering an approachable tactility and a lightweight feel. The Lime switches are silenced, making them perfect for tactile fans who want a quieter typing experience. They provide a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a linear or tactile feel, and whether you prefer a clacky sound or a muted sound. Overall, both switches offer a lightweight typing experience and are suitable for various purposes, so it's up to you to decide which features align with your preferences and typing style.
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