TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, along with a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is noted for its tactile feedback, providing a more pronounced bump when a key is actuated. While the Gold Red is classified as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Tom does not have any specific categorizations. Depending on your preferences, you may choose the Gold Red for its smoothness and subtle sound, or the Tom for its tactile feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Tom, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite these similarities, the Gold Red and the Tom differ in their bottom housing material. The Gold Red features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Tom also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics associated with this classic switch housing material.
While both the Gold Red and the Tom share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing material affects the sound profile and feel of each switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the characteristics of the nylon material for a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material exerts more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the properties of the polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Tom will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profiles and typing feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a clear and resonant sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting effects. However, the distinction in bottom housing materials means that the Gold Red may provide a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to the Tom's potentially rounder and duller tone. Consideration of these differences will help users determine which switch better aligns with their typing preferences and desired sound profile.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams of force, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force between the two switches can result in a smoother typing experience with the Gold Red, making it preferable for those who type for extended periods. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Tom switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, which can be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the key press.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Gold Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Tom switch. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while 3.0mm is shallower. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Tom switch a popular choice for gaming. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Gold Red switch with its longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Tom 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, making it a satisfying choice for those who enjoy a deeper and more mellow typing experience. The sound is described as neutral, suitable for a wide range of users in various environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to compare in this aspect.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. The switch is described as subtle and polished, ensuring a refined and comfortable typing feel for users. Unfortunately, the tactile qualities of the Outemu Tom switch are not provided, making it challenging to determine how it compares in terms of feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a buttery smooth feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the TTC Gold Red would be an excellent choice. However, if you are considering the Outemu Tom switch, it is important to note that without specific details on its sound and feel characteristics, it may be difficult to make a direct comparison. In general, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience, although the specific nuances of their sound and feel may vary.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preference for a light-medium level of resistance and a buttery smooth typing experience with a snappy sound profile. The Gold Red switch is a great choice for those who enjoy a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, along with a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and unique characteristics, the Outemu Tom tactile switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve on your mechanical keyboard.
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