TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Brown present two distinct options for different preferences. The gold red, a linear switch, is favored for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. Known for its snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard, the gold red is categorized as thocky, low-pitched, neutral, mild, silky, subtle, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, offers a different typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their 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
45g
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
Polycarbonate
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
Both the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with these housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches planning to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Gold Red and Dustproof Brown switches also feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound for a different typing experience.
While both the Gold Red and Dustproof Brown switches have similar polycarbonate top housings that provide a sharp and clear sound profile, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. This split in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both switches maintain the crisp sound profile provided by their polycarbonate top housings.
In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Brown switches will depend on the desired typing experience. If a sharper and clearer sound profile is preferred, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will deliver similar results. However, the nylon bottom housing of each switch will offer distinct sound profiles, with the Gold Red providing a deeper and fuller sound, and the Dustproof Brown offering a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the typing experience and sound profile, catering to individual preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams while the Dustproof Brown needs 65 grams, making it heavier. The Gold Red switch offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for extended typing sessions and gaming. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their force requirements, allowing users to choose based on their preferred typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. In conclusion, both switches offer the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for users who prioritize consistency in their typing experience.
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 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
Overall, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or distracting. In terms of feel, it offers a mild and silky typing experience, with subtle resistance and a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch does not have specific information available regarding sound or feel qualities. However, based on the descriptions of the Gold Red switch, it is likely that the Dustproof Brown switch may offer a similar smooth and gentle typing experience with a moderate sound profile. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is recommended to try out both to see which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a light-medium resistance and a buttery smooth typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy resistance and a more neutral typing feel, the Dustproof Brown switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your individual preferences and typing style.
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