TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, one can immediately see their distinct differences. The Gold Red Pro is lauded for its versatility, offering a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature that makes it suitable for a wide range of activities. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch lacks a standout feature but is still a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Gold Red Pro is praised for its adaptability in various settings, the Crystal Brown switch provides a tactile bump for enhanced typing 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of this plastic. This stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making polycarbonate a popular choice for switches meant to be used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
Despite the similarities in their housing materials, the Gold Red Pro and Crystal Brown switches offer slightly different typing experiences due to the distribution of these materials. The qualities of the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the impact of the top housing, affecting the sound when releasing a key, will be more noticeable as the key returns to its original position. This distribution of housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon in a single switch.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a duller, rounder sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is lighter at 43 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Crystal Brown is heavier at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is unknown. This means that the Crystal Brown switch requires a slightly heavier initial force to activate a keystroke but provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. In contrast, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a lighter actuation force but with an unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter typing experience for extended periods or a more substantial push feel while typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red Pro being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Gold Red Pro for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The Outemu Crystal Brown 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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is neutral and pleasing to the ear. This makes it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare in this aspect.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro switch provides a polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience that is smooth and refined. Its mild characteristics make it approachable to most users, while the subtle resistance ensures a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not specified, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. While the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch excels in versatility, providing a neutral sound signature and a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's specific sound and feel characteristics remain unknown. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience. However, based on the available information, users can expect similar results in terms of versatility and adaptability with the Gold Red Pro linear switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the best choice for you. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various settings, whether it be for gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Crystal Brown could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound, feel, and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
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