TTC Gold Silver vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Gold offer intriguing choices with distinct characteristics. The TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness and smooth operation, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, known for its audible click sound upon actuation, offering a more pronounced tactile experience. Choosing between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style. The Gold Silver may appeal to those seeking a quieter, more subtle typing experience, while the Outemu Gold could be preferred by users who enjoy the audible 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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 TTC Gold Silver and Outemu Gold both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Silver elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Gold. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
Despite the similarities in their top housing materials, the TTC Gold Silver stands out with its nylon bottom housing compared to the Outemu Gold. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing in a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel when typing. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Gold Silver contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience when compared to the Outemu Gold.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Gold offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a sharp and clear sound, with the added benefit of being ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the nylon bottom housing in the Gold Silver sets it apart with a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between these switches result in varying typing experiences that cater to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the TTC Gold Silver has a bottom out force that is unknown, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it the heavier of the two. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the TTC Gold Silver, as it allows for longer periods of typing without strain. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may choose the Outemu Gold clicky switch for its heavier bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, both switches will provide similar results, but the bottom out force is where they differ and cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Gold Silver offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster input recognition may prefer the Gold Silver switch, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Outemu Gold switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each individual user desires. Both switches, however, offer a similar level of quality and performance despite their slight difference in travel distance.
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 Gold 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
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch in terms of sound, the Gold Silver is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the sound profile of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is unknown, making it challenging to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Silver is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is also unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this regard. Nonetheless, the Gold Silver's mild and subtle tactile characteristics contribute to a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is lauded for its rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, thocky sound, and polished feel, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unknown. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch with similar attributes to the Gold Silver, choosing a switch with known characteristics like the Cherry MX Silver could yield comparable results in terms of sound and feel. Remember that the choice of a mechanical keyboard switch ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a switch that offers rapid responsiveness, smooth key travel, and a resonant sound signature, then the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium actuation force, and are seeking a clicky typing experience, then the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be the perfect fit. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired key feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your individual typing needs.
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