TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing ease of press and a neutral sound signature suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is shrouded in mystery, lacking specific standout features in its description. While the Gold Red Pro is described as polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Silent Yellow remains undefined in these aspects. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings also contributes to a more resonant sound due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for the top housing, they may differ in their design and construction, leading to variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches have nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer material, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, the specific design and thickness of the housing can still impact the overall typing experience. Therefore, while they may share the same material for the bottom housing, subtle differences in construction can lead to varying typing feel and sound.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of keystrokes. While both the Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches share similar materials for their top and bottom housings, such as polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, differences in design and construction can lead to unique typing experiences. Whether it be creating a sharper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper sound profile with nylon, each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience in its own way.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch. The Gold Red Pro requires 43 grams of force to actuate, while the Silent Yellow needs 65 grams. Both switches do not have information available on their bottom out forces, indicating that they may provide similar results in terms of typing experience when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter touch and less resistance while typing, the Gold Red Pro might be a more suitable option. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is heavier and provides a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Red Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Silent Yellow more to their liking due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Yellow 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 praised for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a satisfying and bass-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, leaving a potential mystery in terms of auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro offers a polished and silky typing experience, with mild and subtle characteristics that cater to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the tactile feel of the Silent Yellow switch remains undisclosed, leaving uncertainty regarding its tactile feedback and smoothness.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch stands out for its versatile and adaptable nature, providing a neutral sound signature and a polished, smooth typing feel that caters to various preferences and settings. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch remains a bit of an enigma with unknown sound and feel qualities. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use case. If consistency in performance is desired, opting for the Gold Red Pro may provide a similar experience across different aspects compared to the Silent Yellow. As an expert in mechanical keyboard switches, I would recommend further research or hands-on experience to fully determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value versatility, adaptability, and a neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Red Pro is a great option for various settings and typing preferences. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.