TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch. The Gold Red is favored for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, offering a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black doesn't have a standout feature like the Gold Red but offers a reliable linear switch experience. If you're looking for a switch with a subtle, polished feel, the Gold Red may be the way to go. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Black both share polycarbonate top housing materials that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, the two switches differ in their nylon bottom housing materials. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While the top housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Black are similar in their use of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials offer slight variations in sound profiles. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller typing experience, while the Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder typing sound. This difference in bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Black play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials allow for a balance in impact on the bottom-out sound and feel versus the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Gold Red requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Dustproof Black. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black provides a heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a smooth and consistent keystroke with both switches. This similarity ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and typing experience, regardless of which switch is being used.
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 Dustproof Black 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 with a neutral tone suitable for various settings. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience with subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing feel. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is currently unknown. Since the sound and feel descriptions for the Dustproof Black switch are unavailable, it is difficult to directly compare it with the Gold Red switch. However, based on the qualities of the Gold Red switch, it is likely that the Dustproof Black switch would offer a similar smooth and gentle typing experience with its own unique characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, buttery feel with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize dustproof capabilities without specific sound or feel preferences, the Dustproof Black switch may be better suited for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which features align best with your typing preferences and priorities.
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