TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue stand out as prime examples of what makes a great switch. The Gold Red Pro is a linear switch renowned for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch that offers a tactile feedback with a satisfying click sound. While the Gold Red Pro is suitable for a wide range of uses, the Milk Blue is ideal for those who enjoy the audible feedback while typing. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue, it is evident that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housings, their differing nylon bottom housings provide distinct sound profiles during operation. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the switch's tactile feedback. Conversely, the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder sound, offering a different typing experience compared to the Gold Red Pro. This contrast highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Milk Blue play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, their differing nylon bottom housings result in distinct typing experiences. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing tactile feedback, while the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during long work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Milk Blue may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. In terms of actuation force, the Gold Red Pro is lighter, while the Milk Blue is heavier. Regardless of the specific bottom out force measurement, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the amount of force required to bottom out with both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Gold Red Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Milk Blue's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Milk Blue being slightly longer. The shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue provides a more substantial key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experiences.
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 Milk 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
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is known for its versatile and seamless typing experience, with a neutral sound profile that is harmonious in any setting. The switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a moderate actuation force, making it suitable for all users. In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro provides a polished and silky typing experience that is mild and subtle, catering to a wide range of preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch lacks available information on sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the Gold Red Pro. However, based on the characteristics of the Gold Red Pro, it can be assumed that the Milk Blue may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, but the Gold Red Pro stands out for its adaptability and user-friendly design.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a versatile and adaptable switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is the perfect choice for you. Whether you're a gamer, office worker, or casual typist, the Gold Red Pro can cater to your needs with its ease of press and polished feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch might be more up your alley. With its clicky sound and satisfying feel, the Milk Blue is great for those who enjoy a bit more feedback while typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference in sound and feel. So, consider your typing style and environment to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.