TTC Gold Silver vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Ocean. The Gold Silver, a linear switch, is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, resulting in a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. This switch also offers a resonant sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Ocean, a tactile switch, is known for its tactile feedback and distinct actuation point, providing users with a satisfying bump when pressing each key. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Ocean focuses on tactile feedback and precision. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Ocean utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows for better light dispersion. The similarities in top housing material between the two switches suggest that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either switch.
On the other hand, the Gold Silver and the Outemu Ocean differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Gold Silver featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Ocean featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. By understanding the contributions of each housing material to the overall typing experience, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams, making the Gold Silver easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Silver would be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Gold Silver provides a lighter actuation force, while the Ocean offers a heavier actuation force for those seeking a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, we see that the Gold Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Ocean's 4 mm. The Gold Silver offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Ocean's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel to each key press, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference - whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences 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 Ocean 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 Silver linear switch is known for its rapid responsiveness, providing a sense of closure with each keystroke and offering a smooth journey from press to bottom-out. It produces a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound, creating a deep and satisfying audible experience. In terms of feel, the Gold Silver offers a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction. On the other hand, not much information is available about the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound and feel qualities. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the Gold Silver and Ocean switches offer different characteristics in sound and feel, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for the specific sound and feel qualities described for each switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a smooth keystroke journey with a resonant sound, then the Gold Silver switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique tactile feel and a different sound profile, the Ocean tactile switch may be more suited to your liking. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and overall typing experience you're looking for when making your decision between these two switches.
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