TTC Gold Silver vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Blue. The TTC Gold Silver is a linear switch, favored for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel distance that results in a satisfying bottom-out with each keystroke. This switch also boasts a resonant sound signature and a smooth key press, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking speed and precision. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that offers a tactile bump and audible click with each press. While it may not be as swift as the Gold Silver, the Blue switch provides a satisfying typing experience with its tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your preference for speed, sound, and tactility. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Blue switches, it is evident that they both use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is also beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Gold Silver and the Blue switches, the distribution of these materials differs in each switch. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housing impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distribution allows for a balanced and dynamic typing experience, combining the unique qualities of both housing materials within a single switch design.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gold Silver and Blue switches showcases how different plastics can affect sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of these materials highlights the importance of each component in creating a distinct typing experience. Whether it be a sharper and crisper sound profile from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon, these housing materials significantly impact the overall performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Gold Silver easier to press for typing or gaming. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is hard to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. When comparing the actuation force, the Gold Silver would be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch would be favored by those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver linear switch. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered traditional, while 3.0 is shallower. Gamers often opt for switches with shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Gold Silver switch a popular choice among gamers. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Outemu Blue switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Blue 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 Silver linear switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, delivering a satisfying and deep tone with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch sound characteristics are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Gold Silver switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and a quiet sound signature suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, the feel qualities of the Outemu Blue switch are unknown.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and responsive keystroke with a smooth and polished feel, accompanied by a thocky and low-pitched sound signature. Meanwhile, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptions in both sound and feel aspects, making it challenging to directly compare to the Gold Silver switch. For those looking for a switch that combines speed, precision, and a delightful sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch would be an excellent choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you value rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with tactile feedback and a satisfying click sound, the Outemu Blue switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and fluidity or tactile feedback and audial satisfaction in your typing experience. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and requirements to enhance your overall typing comfort and efficiency.
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