TTC Gold Pink vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink, a linear switch, and the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch. The Gold Pink is renowned for its 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. Ideal for those who prioritize a swift and effortless typing experience, these switches are perfect for both rapid typing and gaming. With a satisfying clacky sound, they offer a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch doesn't have any specific standout features mentioned. While the Gold Pink is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Blue switch has no specific categorization. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, 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
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Blue switches, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches feature nylon for the bottom housing, inducing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in both switches, the key difference lies in how these materials are utilized. While the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound, the Blue's polycarbonate top housing offers a similar effect. However, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, whereas the Blue's nylon bottom housing yields a comparable result. The split between top and bottom housings in each switch affects the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Blue switches share common housing materials, resulting in similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing enhances sharpness, clarity, and resonance, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Meanwhile, nylon in the bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. These differences in materials contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch, with the bottom and top housings playing distinct roles in sound production.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar level of key travel. This can provide consistency in typing experience for users who prefer a certain amount of travel distance. The 4 mm travel distance for both switches allows for a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, both the TTC Gold Pink and Outemu Blue switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Blue 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 TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound, giving a satisfying level of feedback to the user. This sound is more pronounced and may be enjoyed by those who prefer a livelier typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its distinctive clicky sound that is audible and provides an audible confirmation of key presses. The sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches have a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. In comparison, the Outemu Blue switch's feel is unknown, but being a clicky switch, it likely offers a tactile bump and audible click during typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch provides a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound and a buttery feel, ideal for those looking for a fast and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a distinctive clicky sound for audible feedback during typing, although specific information on its feel is not available. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. If you prefer a light touch and a smooth, effortless typing experience, then the Gold Pink switches are the way to go. They are ideal for fast typists and gamers who value speed and precision. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a traditional mechanical switch, then the Outemu Blue switches would be a better choice for you. They provide a satisfying typing experience with each keypress. Consider your typing style, environment, and preferences when deciding between these two switches to ensure you get the best fit for your keyboard setup.
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