Outemu Gold vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Gold switch is best known for its distinct clicking sound and precise actuation, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Tom switch offers a subtle tactile bump without the loud click, providing a more subdued typing experience that is preferred by many gamers. Both switches have their own unique advantages, with the Gold switch offering a more responsive feel and the Tom switch providing a smooth tactile 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Gold and Outemu Tom switches both share the same polycarbonate 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 with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. In terms of aesthetics and sound, both switches are likely to offer a similar experience due to their shared top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Outemu Gold features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom also has a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
When considering the overall typing experience, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Gold and Outemu Tom switches will ultimately impact the sound and feel of the switches differently. The bottom housing of each switch will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed down. Conversely, the top housing will play a larger role in the sound produced when keys are released. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience that combines the benefits of polycarbonate and nylon for distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Tom switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold switch would be the better choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel and are okay with a heavier switch, the Tom switch may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. The longer travel distance of the Gold switch may provide a more satisfying depth when typing or gaming, allowing for a fuller press. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times and a more immediate feedback. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, whether you prefer the shorter or longer travel distance, both switches are designed to provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Gold and Tom.
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 Outemu Gold clicky switch is best known for its audible click sound and sharp tactile feedback. When typing on a keyboard with Outemu Gold switches, you can expect a satisfying click with each key press, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is best known for its smooth and consistent tactile bump without any audible click. Typing on a keyboard with Outemu Tom switches will provide a subtle tactile feedback without the loud click noise, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch produces a sharp clicking sound with each key press, which can be quite loud and satisfying for those who enjoy the clicky sound. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for being a quieter option without any audible click, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing noise. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard casing, keycap material, and typing technique.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch provides a pronounced tactile bump and audible click, giving you a tactile feedback that is both felt and heard. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a smooth and consistent tactile bump without any audible click, providing a more subtle tactile feedback that is felt but not necessarily heard. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of feel, with the Gold switch being more tactile and audible, while the Tom switch is smoother and quieter.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold switch provides a loud and satisfying click with each key press, along with a sharp tactile feedback, whereas the Tom switch offers a quieter and smoother tactile bump without any audible click. Depending on your preference for typing noise and tactile feedback, you can choose between the Outemu Gold and Tom switches to suit your individual typing style. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options in the mechanical keyboard world, providing reliable performance and a unique typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Outemu Gold switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience without a specified bottom out force, then the Outemu Tom switch could be more suitable for your needs. Both switches have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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