TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are some notable differences to consider. The Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle touch while typing. Additionally, the snappy sound profile of the Gold Red adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Cream Pink's characteristics are less defined in this information, making it a bit of a mystery compared to the Gold Red. 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
2.00 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
The TTC Gold Red and Outemu Cream Pink switches both feature a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. The Gold Red, however, uses a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Cream Pink utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile but with a different tonal quality compared to the Gold Red.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, their differences lie in the top housing material. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing offers a unique sound profile with its sharp and crisp qualities, unlike the Cream Pink's nylon top housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch directly impacts the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. As a result, each switch offers a distinct typing experience based on the combination of housing materials used.
In summary, the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Cream Pink switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile and typing experience. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch contributes to a unique typing experience for each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we see that the Gold Red is lighter in both aspects. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it the heavier of the two. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Gold Red may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cream Pink with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of force required, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This means that you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
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 Pink 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 and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch offer similar sound profiles as both are described as having a neutral and low-pitched sound. However, the Gold Red switch provides a thocky sound that adds a subtle touch of personality to the typing experience. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. While there is no available information on the feel of the Cream Pink switch, it can be inferred that it may also provide a smooth typing experience based on its description as having a buttery feel and linear actuation. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but if a user is looking for a switch with a unique and snappy sound profile, the TTC Gold Red linear switch may be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a touch of personality in the sound profile, the Gold Red linear switch is a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a medium-heavy resistance, the Cream Pink linear switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to understand your preferences before making a choice.