Outemu Gold vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The gold switch stands out for its unique feature and falls under the category of clicky switches. On the other hand, the silent red switch is known for providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. With its buttery, mild, muted, and polished attributes, the silent red switch offers a comfortable and consistent typing feel. Each switch has its own unique advantages, but delving into their specific characteristics will help you make an informed decision on which one suits your needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Gold and the TTC Silent Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is ideal for users who enjoy a crisp typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile that is consistent across both the Gold and Silent Red switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Outemu Gold utilizes nylon while the TTC Silent Red also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that can be more satisfying for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both the Gold and Silent Red switches offer a unique typing sensation that is influenced by the material used in the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Outemu Gold and TTC Silent Red switches allows for a variety of sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material offers a distinct typing feel for each switch. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Gold's polycarbonate bottom housing or a deeper, fuller sound with the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Gold and TTC Silent Red switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold requires 60 grams, while the Silent Red needs 63.5 grams, making the Silent Red slightly heavier. The Gold switch offers a medium actuation and bottom out force, providing a balanced typing experience for those who prefer a middle-of-the-road feel. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force, giving users a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight, with the Silent Red being the heavier option for those seeking a more solid keystroke experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.7 mm travel distance of the TTC Silent Red linear switch. This means that the Gold switch will require a slightly deeper press to actuate compared to the Silent Red switch. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold switch being on the longer side and the Silent Red switch on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Red switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gold switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 known for producing a loud and satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is designed to be much quieter, with a muted sound profile that is perfect for quieter environments like offices or shared living spaces. The Silent Red switch minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a softer and quieter typing experience overall. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch doesn't have a specific descriptor provided, but it is known for its clicky tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as having a buttery feel, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. With a mild typing sensation and a polished finish, the Silent Red switch provides a consistent and comfortable feel from top to bottom. This enhanced typing experience is further complemented by a padded bottom-out feel, ensuring maximum comfort during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different experiences when it comes to sound and feel. The Gold switch delivers a loud and satisfying click, while the Silent Red switch provides a quieter and smoother typing experience. Depending on your preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs. Both switches offer high-quality performance, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're in need of a keyboard switch that provides a satisfying clicky feedback and a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Gold switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you value a quiet and smooth typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the TTC Silent Red switches would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for noise level and typing feel. Pick the Outemu Gold for a clicky and medium-actuation force experience, or go for the TTC Silent Red for a silent and buttery typing feel with a slightly heavier touch. Consider your work environment and typing style to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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