TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it's clear that both offer their own unique benefits. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Lime switches stand out for their lightweight feel, gentle tactility, and silenced operation, making them a favorite among fans of tactile switches. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately depends on personal preference and specific needs when choosing between them. 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
43g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Lime switches both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Gold Red Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in material contributes to the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches use nylon material. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. As a result, typing on both the Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Lime switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound experience due to the shared nylon bottom housing. This commonality in material showcases how different switches can still achieve similar results when using the same material for certain components.
The impact of the housing material on the sound profile of a switch is crucial to the overall typing experience. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, the Outemu Lime's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique combination of qualities that cater to both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the Gold Red Pro or the softer nylon of the Outemu Lime, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Lime tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams. However, the Outemu Lime has a higher bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown. In terms of weight, the Outemu Lime is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier when it comes to bottom out force. The actuation force of the Gold Red Pro is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Lime may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In both cases, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces offer users the ability to choose a switch that aligns with their personal preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Lime tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, the Gold Red Pro offers slightly more depth compared to the Lime. Gamers who prefer a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Lime, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the Gold Red Pro. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar level of responsiveness despite the minor difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The Outemu Lime 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 Red Pro linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This makes it a satisfying and deep switch when pressed, providing a harmonious typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is described as having a neutral and muted sound, making it quieter and softer compared to traditional mechanical switches. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments, with the Gold Red Pro leaning slightly towards a deeper and richer sound, while the Lime provides a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. The Outemu Lime switch, on the other hand, is also mild and subtle, providing a light typing feel with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and approachable typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro leaning towards a sleek and refined feel, while the Lime emphasizes a feather-light touch for reduced finger fatigue.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a polished and silky feel, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a muted sound and a feathery tactile feel, ideal for those seeking a quieter and lighter typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, catering to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a deeper, polished typing experience or a quieter, feather-light touch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value versatility, ease of press, and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility, a muted sound profile, and a polished typing experience, the Lime switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what matters most to you in your typing experience.
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