TTC Gold Silver vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and Outemu Silver both stand out as linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, offering shortened travel that results in a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. This switch is also praised for its smooth journey from initial press to bottoming out, creating a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is a bit mysterious in terms of standout features, but it still offers a linear typing experience. While the Gold Silver is polished, thocky, low-pitched, silky, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Outemu Silver lacks specific descriptors. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize swift action and resonant sound (TTC Gold Silver) or are open to exploring a more understated linear switch option (Outemu Silver). 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silver switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Outemu Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, so in terms of sound profile, they would provide a similar experience.
The use of different housing materials in the TTC Gold Silver and Outemu Silver switches offers unique characteristics to each. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a distinctive sound profile, with a sharper and crisper tone. This material is favored for its stiffness and ability to enhance resonance, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing in both switches produces a deeper and fuller sound that is muffled compared to the top housing material. This softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile that may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience.
While the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and Outemu Silver switches may differ in terms of top and bottom housing, both contribute to the overall typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing in each switch provides a balanced sound profile with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience for users. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Gold Silver switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Outemu Silver switch requires a heavier force of 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Outemu Silver switch may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Gold Silver switch's lighter bottom out force (exact force unknown) may appeal to those who prefer a more lightweight typing feel for extended use, such as during long workdays or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Silver switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Gold Silver switch. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Gold Silver switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Silver switch provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and the desired keystroke 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 Silver 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 sound of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Outemu Silver linear switch, the Gold Silver is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying tone with each keystroke. This sound, combined with a neutral actuation force requirement, makes the Gold Silver ideal for various users and environments. In contrast, the sound profile of the Outemu Silver is unknown. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Silver is praised for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with gentle resistance. This comfortable typing experience is complemented by a seamless switch journey from press to bottom-out. Unfortunately, the typing feel of the Outemu Silver switch remains unknown.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and precise typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Its polished and silky feel enhances the overall smoothness of typing, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. However, without information on the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. In cases where the subjective qualities are similar or unknown, users can expect comparable results in terms of speed, sound, and fluidity between these two linear switch options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider the specific qualities of each switch. If you value rapid responsiveness, a decisive bottom-out with each keystroke, and a smooth and fluid typing experience, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom-out force and are looking for a switch with specific sound and feel characteristics that align with your preferences, the Outemu Silver linear switch might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and priorities.
Mentioned in this article
