Outemu Gold vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and TTC Yunhai present distinct options catering to different user preferences. The Outemu Gold, characterized as a clicky switch, is often favored for its tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, which enhances the typing experience, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more pronounced interaction with their keyboard. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai, known for its linear switch design, boasts a smooth and quiet operation with a light actuation force, providing a gentle and effortless typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize speed and fluidity. While the Outemu Gold is ideal for those seeking auditory feedback during typing, the Yunhai caters to typists who prefer a more subdued environment without sacrificing responsiveness. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials used in the Outemu Gold and the TTC Yunhai switches, a notable distinction arises from the top housing. The Gold utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This material not only enhances the sound clarity but also benefits RGB lighting setups with its translucency, making it particularly suitable for visually appealing keyboards. In contrast, the Yunhai features a nylon top housing, which has a softer nature that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material directly influences the auditory experience, as the Gold's polycarbonate top creates a more pronounced release tone, while the Yunhai's nylon evokes a rounded, textured acoustic quality.
However, when examining the bottom housings of these switches, both the Outemu Gold and the TTC Yunhai utilize nylon, leading to a consistent auditory experience of deep and rich sound profiles. Since nylon is a classic choice for keyboard switches, both models share similar properties in this regard: the softer plastic absorbs more sound and enhances the overall depth of the bottom-out acoustic experience. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing assures that regardless of the differing top housings, typists will encounter comparable sound characteristics and feelings when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the differences in top housings produce distinct sound profiles that cater to various preferences among users, while the uniformity of the nylon bottom housing creates a consistent base for both switches. The Outemu Gold, with its polycarbonate top housing, produces a sharper sound upon release, contrasting with the rounder sound of the TTC Yunhai's nylon top. This synthesis of materials allows keyboard enthusiasts to choose switches that align closely with their desired typing experience, whether they prefer the crispness of polycarbonate combined with the rich nylon base or the full-bodied sound of a completely nylon design.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch offer different actuation and bottom out forces, catering to distinct typing preferences. The Outemu Gold requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that the Yunhai is easier to press and may be more suitable for prolonged use, as it requires less force for each keystroke. The Gold switch, being heavier, provides a more substantial tactile feel, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, for users seeking a more effortless typing experience, the lighter TTC Yunhai would be the better choice, while those preferring more resistance might lean towards the Outemu Gold.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the Outemu Gold stands out with a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the TTC Yunhai features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The traditional travel distance is generally considered to be around 4 mm, so the Outemu Gold aligns with this standard, offering a more tactile and hearty depth that some users may prefer. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai's shorter travel distance caters to a growing trend among gamers who favor quicker response times for a more responsive typing experience. The difference in travel distance indicates that users may select the Outemu Gold for a deeper keystroke feel, while the Yunhai could be more appealing for those who appreciate a swifter actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 considering the sound characteristics of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are distinct differences to note. The Outemu Gold is recognized for its clicky feedback, which typically results in a sharp and pronounced sound with each keystroke. This makes it satisfying for users who enjoy auditory confirmation while typing. In contrast, the Yunhai switches produce a more subdued, deep, and rounded sound profile. Their unique acoustic quality is complemented by the linear nature of the switch, offering a quiet yet rich typing experience. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound of each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard’s build quality and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch provides a tactile experience, characterized by a distinct bump at the actuation point, which appeals to those who prefer a more engaged typing sensation. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and make the overall experience more satisfying for some users. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is designed for those who appreciate a smoother experience with minimal resistance. Known for its incredibly light actuation force, the Yunhai allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for fast typists or those who desire a softer touch. Despite these differences, both switches can offer enjoyable typing experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch will depend on your personal priorities regarding sound and feel. If you’re inclined towards auditory feedback and a tactile response that engages your fingers, the Gold is an excellent option. Conversely, if you favor a quiet, smooth, and lightweight typing experience, the Yunhai will likely be more to your liking. While both switches offer distinctive qualities, understanding their unique attributes can help you make an informed decision tailored to your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch depends significantly on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile and audible feedback while typing, the Outemu Gold may be your go-to option, especially if you appreciate the medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that gives you a satisfying feel without being too heavy. This might be ideal for gamers or typists who thrive on precision and enjoy the pronounced clicks that accompany each keystroke. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother and quieter typing experience, the TTC Yunhai is likely the better choice. With its light 50-gram actuation force and deep, rounded sound profile, it creates an effortlessly responsive feel that many typists adore, making it perfect for long typing sessions or for those who prefer a more subdued sound environment. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize tactile feedback and audible clickiness or a softer, more fluid typing experience.
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