TTC Gold Pink vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf stand out in their own unique ways. The Gold Pink, a linear switch, boasts a 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. Ideal for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience, these switches are perfect for quick typing or gaming, while also providing a satisfying clacky sound for feedback. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf, a tactile switch, offers a different typing experience with its unique characteristics. While less information is provided about the Maple Leaf, it can be inferred that this switch may offer a different tactile feel compared to the smoother, more linear Gold Pink switch. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This means that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the Gold Pink uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Maple Leaf utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in top housing materials will impact the sound when releasing a key, with the Gold Pink producing a clearer sound compared to the Maple Leaf.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the TTC Gold Pink provides an aesthetic advantage as well, as it is translucent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. This visual feature sets the Gold Pink apart from the Outemu Maple Leaf, which does not offer the same level of transparency in its housing materials. However, both switches excel in creating a unique sound experience for users, with the Gold Pink focusing on a sharp and resonant profile while the Maple Leaf offers a deeper and fuller sound. This distinction in sound profiles may cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, with some favoring a crisp sound and others preferring a more rounded tone.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf share a common nylon bottom housing that provides a deep and full sound profile, they differ in their top housing materials and resulting sound characteristics. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound. Whether one prefers the crisper sound of the Gold Pink or the fuller sound of the Maple Leaf will depend on individual preferences for typing experiences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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 Maple Leaf tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit of resistance. Those who opt for the Gold Pink can expect a smoother and more effortless typing experience due to the lighter actuation force, while users of the Maple Leaf can enjoy a more tactile feedback and satisfying click with the heavier actuation force. Despite the difference in weight, both switches are designed to provide a reliable and responsive typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Pink has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Gold Pink with its longer travel distance, while those looking for a more abrupt and responsive feel may opt for the Maple Leaf with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and needs 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 Maple Leaf 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 is known for its clacky sound, which adds to the overall satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is described using terms like "buttery", "mild", "feathery", "subtle", and "polished", indicating a smooth, gentle, light, and refined typing experience. These qualities make it suitable for fast and effortless typing as well as gaming. As for the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the feel characteristic is unknown. Assuming it is tactile, it may provide a different typing experience compared to a linear switch like the Gold Pink.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a range of smooth and comfortable feel descriptors. In contrast, details about the sound and feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch are unknown. If you are looking for a light switch with a clacky sound and smooth feel, the Gold Pink would be a great choice. For a tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf may offer a different feel altogether. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a fast actuation force, the Gold Pink switch may be perfect for you. These switches are great for rapid typing and gaming, offering a satisfying feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile bump for more feedback, the Maple Leaf switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prioritize speed and lightness (Gold Pink) or tactility and feedback (Maple Leaf). Both switches have their own strengths and it really comes down to your personal preferences.
Mentioned in this article
