TTC Gold Silver vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice distinct differences in their characteristics. The TTC Gold Silver is praised for its rapid responsiveness, featuring a shortened travel distance that ensures each press results in a solid bottom-out with a satisfying closure. The switch's smooth journey from actuation to bottoming out is accompanied by a resonant sound signature, adding to the overall experience of speed and fluidity in keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch lacks a standout feature but provides a reliable linear typing experience. While the Gold Silver is polished, thocky, low-pitched, silky, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Black switch does not fall under any specific category. Deciding between these two switches ultimately depends on your preference for speed and audible feedback or a straightforward linear typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Black both share similarities due to their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold Silver utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Black also uses nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound experience to the Gold Silver.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Gold Silver and Outemu Black switches feature clear polycarbonate top housings, making them visually appealing and ideal for setups with RGB lighting. However, the difference in their bottom housing material, nylon, affects the sound profile differently. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Outemu Black's nylon bottom housing also adds depth and fullness to the sound profile. This shows how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall sound experience of a switch.
When it comes to the tactile experience of typing on these switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gold Silver and Outemu Black switches provides users with a unique typing experience that combines the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate with the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon. Ultimately, both switches offer a blend of qualities from their housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Black is heavier with an actuation force of 65 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Silver's force is unknown, whereas the Black has a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue, the Gold Silver may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Black switch. In both cases, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience, allowing users to find the switch that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Gold Silver. The Gold Silver's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Black's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
The Outemu 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
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stands out for its rapid responsiveness, providing a satisfyingly solid bottom-out with each keystroke. The switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and mellow tone that pairs well with the switch's smooth and polished feel. The Gold Silver's silky and mild characteristics contribute to a subtle typing experience, making it suitable for shared spaces while still offering a satisfyingly smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific descriptions in terms of sound and feel, so it's difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the information presented, it can be inferred that the Gold Silver offers a unique blend of speed, sound, and fluidity that sets it apart from the unknown qualities of the Outemu Black. Ultimately, both switches are linear in design, so you can expect similar bottom-out feel and sound characteristics to a certain degree.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver and Outemu Black linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a switch with no defined bottom out force and value rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a harmonious sound signature, then the TTC Gold Silver is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams and prioritize a different feel and sound profile, the Outemu Black may be more suited to your typing style. Consider your personal preferences and typing needs when making your decision between these two switches.
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