TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, each offers a unique typing experience. The Gold Red is renowned for its buttery smooth feel and light-medium resistance, providing a satisfying and quiet typing experience with a subtle snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red doesn't have any standout features but is known for its reliability. While the Gold Red is characterized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Dustproof Red lacks any distinct categorizations. If you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile and a light-medium resistance, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 the Outemu Dustproof Red both use polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is also great for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the light to shine through. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red and the Dustproof Red provides a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their different bottom housing materials result in slightly different typing experiences. The Gold Red's nylon bottom housing creates a more absorbing sound profile, while the Dustproof Red's nylon housing offers a similar deep and full sound when typing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Dustproof Red share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their nylon bottom housings provide slightly different sound profiles. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper sound, while the softer nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound for a deeper tone. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help individuals choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, the actuation force of the Gold Red is lighter at 43 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Gold Red is also lighter at 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's heavier 60 grams. The Gold Red provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Red offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, appealing to those who prefer more resistance when typing. Both switches provide a different typing experience, with the Gold Red being lighter overall and the Dustproof Red offering a heavier feel. Ultimately, individuals should consider their typing preferences when choosing between the two switches to ensure they select the one that best suits their needs.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance. Whether using the TTC Gold Red or the Outemu Dustproof Red switch, the travel distance will remain consistent at 4 mm, providing a smooth and reliable 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is currently unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is known for its mild, silky, subtle, and polished attributes, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance that is suitable for various environments. In contrast, details on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch are not available at this time.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches differ in terms of sound and feel based on the information provided, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user. If both switches exhibit similar characteristics in sound and feel, users can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light typing experience with a buttery smooth feel and a moderate level of resistance, the Gold Red is the way to go. The snappy sound profile of the Gold Red also adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too loud. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not concerned with sound and feel descriptions, the Dustproof Red may be a suitable choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing habits.
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