TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique features for different preferences. The Kiwi Switches are designed to provide a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. Additionally, the switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience from the get-go. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch lacks a distinct reputation or feature beyond being categorized as clicky. These switches appeal to individuals who enjoy the audible click sound with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Gold switches both offer unique sound profiles, but they achieve this in different ways. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing provides bright and resonant clacks due to its newer material composition, while the Gold's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiff plastic construction. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Gold switch allows for RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice. However, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences in typing sound.
While the top housing of the switches may vary, the bottom housing also plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile. The Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing continues the trend of providing bright and resonant sound, while the Gold's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer composition. The difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing. Both switches showcase the importance of considering not only the top housing but also the bottom housing when selecting switches for a specific sound preference.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Gold switches each bring their own unique characteristics to the typing experience. The Kiwi excels in providing bright and resonant clacks with its UHWMPE housing materials, while the Gold offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold switch creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing. Overall, both switches demonstrate how the combination of top and bottom housing materials influences the sound and feel of typing, catering to the preferences of users seeking specific auditory experiences.
Weight
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch with 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Gold's 60 grams. This means that the Kiwi offers a bit more resistance during a keystroke, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold switch is slightly lighter overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback at the same distance, making them equal in that aspect. Despite any other differences between the switches, such as actuation force or sound profile, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance when using either the Kiwi or the Gold switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10.
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 it comes to sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. This can result in a satisfying and immersive typing experience, especially when paired with a quality keyboard and keycaps. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is praised for its stepped, accented, and polished feel. This means that users can expect a switch with two distinct stages in its tactile feedback, a medium tactile sensation that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction during typing. Conversely, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Gold switch are not provided, making it challenging to make a direct comparison with the Kiwi in terms of feel.
Taking all available information into consideration, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch appears to offer a unique combination of a low-pitched sound profile and a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. While the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific details on both sound and feel, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, along with a stepped, accented, and polished feel, then the TKC Kiwi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile experience with a clicky sound profile, the Gold may be more suitable. Remember to take into account factors such as bottom out force and personal typing preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
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