TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Blue. The Gold Red, a linear switch, is known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. It offers a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being too loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, provides a different typing experience with a distinct click sound. While the Gold Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Blue switch does not have any specific categorizations listed. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Blue switches share similarities in that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This stiffness results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. Additionally, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these similarities, the distribution of these housing materials in the switches may impact the overall sound and feel differently.
However, the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Blue switches also have distinct differences in their housing materials. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the specifics of how the material is used may vary. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing is designed to emphasize the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for users seeking a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue's polycarbonate top housing may offer a slightly different sound profile, catering to a different preference. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings of the two switches may result in slightly varied sound characteristics, with the Gold Red possibly offering a more impactful bottom-out sound compared to the Outemu Blue.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Blue switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, as well as nylon bottom housings for a deep and full sound, the specific distribution and design of these housing materials may lead to subtle differences in the typing experience. Users looking for a crisper, higher-pitched sound profile may lean towards the Gold Red, while those seeking a slightly different sound profile may prefer the Outemu Blue. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Gold Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Blue switch's higher actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Gold Red switch will require less force to register a key press, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. Additionally, the Gold Red switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is the same as its actuation force, providing consistency throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Blue switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how much force is required to fully press the key. Overall, the Gold Red switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Blue switch may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it can be concluded that they will provide a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom. Both switches will offer a consistent feel when pressing down on the keys, ensuring a smooth typing or gaming experience. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches signifies that users can expect a comfortable and familiar feel regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Blue switches are on par with each other when it comes to travel distance, providing users with consistent performance in their respective applications.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which is neutral and not too distracting. The switch offers a mild and silky typing experience with a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces and comfortable for most users. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, but it is known for its clicky nature, which may be louder and more tactile than the Gold Red. Without specific information on the feel of the Outemu Blue switch, it is safe to assume that it may offer a more tactile and pronounced typing experience compared to the smoother and lighter feel of the Gold Red switch. In conclusion, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Gold Red linear switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky feel, the Outemu Blue switch could provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a buttery smooth and light-medium level of resistance with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky sound and prefer a switch with tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue clicky switch might be the better option. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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