TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Gold Red switch is known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. With a snappy sound profile, it adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu has gained recognition for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
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
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. So, in terms of their top housing, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic benefits.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gold Red utilizes a nylon housing while the Yellow Silver also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, both switches will have a similar impact on the sound and feel of the bottom-out action.
It is important to note that in switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing will have more impact on the sound when releasing the key. This distinction allows for a nuanced typing experience with variations in sound depending on the direction of key movement for both the Gold Red and the Yellow Silver switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, compared to the Yellow Silver's slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Gold Red is lighter at 50 grams, while the Yellow Silver requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. These variances in force can impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may appreciate the Gold Red switches as they require less force to trigger a keystroke and reach the bottom. This lighter actuation and bottom out force can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Yellow Silver switches. With their slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, these switches provide a stronger push sensation and may be preferred by those looking for a more robust and tactile typing experience. Although the forces for both switches differ, individuals seeking similar results to the Gold Red can still achieve a lighter touch with the Yellow Silver, as the variances in force are relatively minimal.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using either of these switches.
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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 offers a thocky and low-pitched profile. This means that when you press the keys, you'll experience a deep and satisfying sound, similar to a soft knock or thud. The neutral sound profile of these switches adds a moderate level of personality to your keyboard without being overly loud or attention-grabbing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that its sound is moderate and suitable for most intents and purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, and whether for home or work use. It is favorable for gamers and typists who prefer a speediness and responsiveness. It is important to note that the actual sound produced by these switches also depends on other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches provide a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. They have a light-medium level of resistance, making them approachable and suitable for most users. The silky nature of these switches enhances the smoothness of the typing feel and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The subtle resistance ensures a light typing feel, and the sound signature is not resonant, making these switches suitable for shared spaces. The polished finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, there is no available information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch.
Based on the available information, both the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. However, the Gold Red switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, adding a touch of personality to your keyboard, while the sound profile of the Yellow Silver switch remains unknown. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle and smooth typing feel with reduced friction and a refined finish. The feel of the Yellow Silver switch is not mentioned. Remember that the ultimate experience will also depend on other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, adding a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too loud. In terms of feel, the Gold Red is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, suitable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness, then the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be the better option. Overall, these switches offer different characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.