TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Blue 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 Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying auditory response with each key press. While the Gold Red Pro is lauded for its adaptability in gaming, office work, and casual typing, the Outemu Blue excels in providing a tactile and clicky typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Blue both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches using RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in the design and aesthetics of their switches overall.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Blue utilize nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This choice of material for the bottom housing can impact the overall typing experience, as the qualities of nylon will be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the two switches may still offer different typing experiences based on design and construction.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Blue use polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch can lead to variations in sound and feel. Whether the focus is on creating a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a fuller sound profile with nylon, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the combination of these housing materials in each switch.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Blue's 50 grams. This means that the Gold Red Pro requires less pressure to register a keystroke, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is unclear how much pressure is needed to fully press the key down on either switch. Despite this, individuals looking for a switch with a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, while those seeking a switch with a heavier actuation force may find the Outemu Blue more to their liking. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation force should be taken into consideration based on personal preference and typing style, as it can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. In this comparison, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Blue switch. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 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
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a versatile and balanced typing experience with its neutral sound signature and smooth key press. The sound produced is thocky and low-pitched, creating a deep and satisfying auditory feedback. The switch's feel is polished and silky, providing a refined and smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not available. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability and comfort, the Blue switch may offer a different experience that caters to individuals who prefer a clicky and tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Gold Red Pro promising a consistent and enjoyable typing experience, while the Outemu Blue switch may offer a distinct tactile feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you're considering the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it all comes down to your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile and versatile adaptability, the Gold Red Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky feedback and tactile response for a more engaging typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch is a better fit. Remember to take into account factors like sound, feel, and intended usage to make an informed decision on which switch is the right choice for you. Ultimately, the choice between these switches is a personal one based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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