TTC Gold Silver vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, you'll find yourself in a dilemma of speed versus tactility. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes, providing a satisfying bottom-out with each press. In contrast, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility with a unique sound profile characterized by a bassier bottom-out and a clackier top-out. While the Gold Silver excels in providing a seamless blend of speed and fluidity, the Red Panda offers a tactile feel that some users may find more satisfying. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the Outemu Red Panda utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, 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. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature in their top housing material, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in subtle differences in sound and feel.
In contrast, the Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which allow it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Red Panda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of this material in shaping the overall sound experience of a switch. Despite this similarity, differences in the design and construction of the switches may still lead to variations in sound and feel between the two.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in the Gold Silver and Red Panda switches respectively highlights the significance of housing materials in influencing the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches aim to provide a unique sound and feel for users, the specific qualities brought by each housing material contribute to subtle differences in the overall typing experience. Whether it be the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, each material plays a crucial role in shaping the character of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see a clear difference in weight. The Gold Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. However, it is worth noting that the Gold Silver does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Red Panda has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Red Panda will provide a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Gold Silver may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Overall, the Gold Silver offers a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Red Panda provides a heavier bottom out force for a more solid typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Gold Silver. Overall, the difference between the two distances is minimal, and users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each key press. The sound is neutral, offering a moderate actuation force and a balanced tone suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch also produces a thocky sound, emphasizing a deep and rich tone that enhances the typing experience. However, the Red Panda switch does not have the low-pitched quality of the Gold Silver switch, resulting in a slightly different sound signature that may appeal to those looking for a different auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is defined by its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key travel that minimizes friction and maximizes fluidity. The switch provides a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, making it a comfortable choice for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda switch also offers a mild typing experience, ensuring that the sound and feel are approachable to most users with its safe, middle-ground qualities. While both switches provide a pleasant typing feel, the Gold Silver switch may appeal more to individuals seeking a smoother and more refined experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver switch excels in providing a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel, perfect for those who value rapid responsiveness and a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch delivers a similar thocky sound with a mild typing feel, appealing to users looking for a gentle yet satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a high level of quality and performance, ensuring that users will find a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value rapid responsiveness, a seamless typing experience, and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility, a raindrop-like bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound, along with a mild typing experience, the Outemu Red Panda is the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you desire, whether it's a focus on speed and sound or tactility and feel.
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