TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Gold Red is renowned for its buttery smooth feel and light-medium resistance, providing a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch lacks specific standout features but is known for its tactile feedback. While the Gold Red is ideal for those seeking a polished and subtle typing experience, the Crystal Brown offers a more traditional tactile feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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 Outemu Crystal Brown switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing to achieve a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red and Crystal Brown switches differ slightly in their sound profiles. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition.
While both switches incorporate polycarbonate in their top housings, the difference in their nylon bottom housings results in distinctive typing experiences. The Gold Red switch's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Crystal Brown switch's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Crystal Brown switches demonstrate the importance of material selection in achieving specific sound profiles. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their differing nylon bottom housings influence the overall sound experience when typing. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing enhances depth and resonance, while the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound for a softer sound profile. Understanding how different housing materials interact can help users choose the best switch for their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident 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 Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Red being slightly lighter and the Crystal Brown being slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may prefer the Crystal Brown. Overall, the Gold Red offers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the Crystal Brown provides a bit more resistance for a tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either one of these switches, the distance traveled by the switch will be the same, resulting in a consistent typing experience. This similarity allows for a similar feel and responsiveness when using both switches. Additionally, with a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect a moderate amount of key travel which can be comfortable for typing and gaming purposes. Overall, the travel distance of both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is the same, providing a familiar typing experience 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 Crystal Brown 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 Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a satisfying and deep noise when pressed. This switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown; however, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red switch is praised for its mild and silky typing experience, providing a gentle and smooth feel with minimal resistance. This switch is also noted for its subtle and polished qualities, offering a refined and sleek typing experience. In comparison, the tactile characteristics of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are not specified.
Overall, based on the available information, the Gold Red linear switch seems to offer a smooth and gentle typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the tactile qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch remain unknown, it is essential to consider personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with potentially different characteristics in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a tactile feedback for more precise typing, the Crystal Brown could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
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