TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, known for their smooth key presses and quiet operation. The Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. With a neutral sound signature, this switch is balanced and adaptable, making it ideal for various tasks such as gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch does not have a specific standout feature but is a reliable and straightforward linear switch. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Red switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting applications, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Therefore, in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This gives the Gold Red Pro a unique typing experience with a focus on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.
Overall, while both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique typing experience focused on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red offers a similar typing experience with its nylon bottom housing, highlighting the qualities of this classic switch housing material. Whether choosing the Gold Red Pro or the Outemu Red, users can expect a premium sound profile and exceptional typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Red linear switch with an actuation force of 46 grams, making the Gold Red Pro slightly easier to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Red takes the lead with a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Outemu Red provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, so users can expect a similar typing feel in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers may prefer the TTC Gold Red Pro for its shorter travel distance, providing faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Outemu Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision 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 Red 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 thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience without being overly loud. In comparison, the Outemu Red linear switch lacks specific descriptors for sound quality, suggesting that it may not have distinguishing characteristics in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal friction. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch does not have any specific feel descriptors provided, indicating that its tactile feel may be more standard without any standout features. Overall, the Gold Red Pro linear switch excels in both sound and feel categories, making it a versatile and adaptable option for a wide range of users and settings. While the Outemu Red switch may provide similar results in terms of performance, the lack of detailed descriptors for sound and feel suggest that it may not offer the same level of customization and refinement as the Gold Red Pro.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a specific sound and feel, the Outemu Red linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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