Outemu Gold vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The Outemu Gold switch, classified as clicky, is designed to provide a tactile and audible feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying, making each keystroke feel both engaging and clear. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch presents a stark departure with its linear design, characterized by a remarkably quiet operation that ensures minimal disruption in quiet environments. This switch is celebrated for its extremely smooth action and a “pillowy” feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a more subdued and refined typing experience. While the Gold switch caters to those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) is perfect for anyone seeking a tranquil workspace without sacrificing performance. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Gold and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which imparts similar acoustic qualities to both switches. Polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its rigidity. This results in a more resonant sound, enhanced when RGB lighting is applied because of the material's translucency. Therefore, users of either switch can expect a clear and vibrant auditory experience during typing that showcases the visual appeal of RGB lighting. The similarity in top housing materials means that both switches will yield comparable results in terms of sound signature when the keys are pressed and released.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly. The Outemu Gold features a nylon bottom housing, celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon’s softer properties, which absorb more sound and contribute to a mellower acoustic experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) employs a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, echoing its top housing's characteristics of sharpness and clarity. This distinct difference means that while the top sound profiles will be similar, the impact of bottom-out sound and feel will vary greatly between the two switches. The nylon of the Gold dampens sound and creates a rounded auditory experience, whereas the polycarbonate of the Silent Frozen (V2) reflects a more defined and resonant exit sound.
Ultimately, the contrasting materials of the bottom housings will lead users to feel and hear the differences when typing, even though both switches boast polycarbonate for the top. For those seeking a more subdued sound signature, the Outemu Gold's nylon bottom housing will be preferable, providing a softer keystroke impact. In comparison, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), with its polycarbonate bottom, promises a snappier auditory feedback. Thus, while the similarities in top housing create a largely comparable experience in tonal quality, the divergence in the bottom housing materials offers a unique tactile feedback that might cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Gold features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch that provides a more substantial typing experience and may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This lighter setup allows for smoother, less taxing typing, ideal for extended use in work environments or long gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches provide distinct actuation and bottom out forces, the Outemu Gold offers a firmer feel, whereas the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) caters to those seeking a more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, the Outemu Gold features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Outemu Gold provides a more pronounced depth and tactile feedback with each key press, appealing to those who appreciate a more traditional feel. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2), with its shorter travel distance, offers a quicker response time, making it more suitable for gamers seeking speed and efficiency. Therefore, if you prefer a switch that feels deeper and more substantial, the Outemu Gold would be the better choice, whereas if responsiveness and speed are your priorities, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) would be ideal.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
The Outemu Gold 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch is relatively unknown in terms of its sound profile. However, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is specifically recognized for its exceptionally quiet sound characteristics. This switch offers a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying noise—particularly appealing to those who favor a more subdued auditory experience while typing. Additionally, it is low-pitched and muted, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Frozen (V2) suitable for quieter environments, where sound reduction is prioritized.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch’s characteristics remain unspecified, leaving it open to interpretation. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is lauded for its smooth and plush typing experience. With descriptors such as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, it promises a seamless keystroke experience. Typing on these switches can feel like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with minimal resistance and fatigue, making them ideal for prolonged use. The luxurious feel of the Silent Frozen (V2) enhances both comfort and performance, making it a favorite for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have specific qualities noted, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is well-regarded for its quiet sound and luxurious feel. If you're drawn to a muted auditory experience combined with a smooth typing surface, the Silent Frozen (V2) is an excellent choice. The lack of described features for the Gold leaves some ambiguity, suggesting it may not offer as distinctive or recognized performance qualities compared to the meticulously characterized Silent Frozen (V2).
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, your choice largely depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy the satisfying tactile feedback and auditory response that a clicky switch offers, and you don't mind a medium resistance that provides a balanced typing experience, then the Outemu Gold is an excellent choice for you. It’s perfect for users who appreciate the traditional mechanical keyboard feel and the sensation of each keystroke. However, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, especially in shared spaces or during extended typing sessions, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is the switch to go for. With its light actuation force and creamy, buttery feel, it allows for effortless typing without the distracting noise associated with clicky options. This makes it especially suited for environments like offices or libraries where noise must be minimized. Ultimately, your decision should center on whether you prioritize auditory feedback and tactile sensation or a silent, smooth typing experience that enhances comfort and reduces fatigue.
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