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TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Cream Blue

An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Gold Red is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, providing a modest touch of personality with its snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Blue is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. While the Gold Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Cream Blue does not have specific categorizations provided. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style; 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

65g

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

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Cream Blue, the key difference lies in the materials used for their top housing. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cream Blue boasts a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound by virtue of its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While the Gold Red's top housing offers a crisp and resonant sound favored for RGB lighting, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing provides a more muffled and rounder sound experience.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Cream Blue utilize nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its ability to absorb sound effectively. As a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, nylon creates a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a consistent depth and richness in sound quality when pressing down on the keys.

When considering the impact of differing top and bottom housing materials on switch performance, it becomes clear that each component plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as depth and fullness in sound, are more pronounced during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, enhancing the overall typing experience with its unique properties. While the Gold Red and Cream Blue offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to different preferences.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we can see that the Gold Red is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Blue is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Gold Red provides a light and easy typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Cream Blue offers a more substantial push feel, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences; however, if you prefer a lighter feel, the Gold Red would be the better choice, while the Cream Blue is more suitable for those who prefer a heavier actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar level of key travel. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, the Gold Red is a linear switch while the Cream Blue is a clicky switch, offering a different typing experience in terms of tactile feedback and auditory response. Overall, the travel distance between the two switches is identical, resulting in a consistent key press feel for users.

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 Cream 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 linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. The Cream Blue switch, on the other hand, has unknown sound characteristics. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch is mild, silky, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. The feel of the Cream Blue switch is unknown. It is important to note that both switches may yield similar results depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. As an expert in mechanical keyboard switches, I would recommend trying out both switches to determine which one best suits your preference for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a light-medium level of resistance and a smooth typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Cream Blue could be more to your liking. Consider factors such as how you prioritize typing feel, sound, and bottom out force when making your decision. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.

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