TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch stand out with their unique characteristics. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, offering a smooth and seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that suits any environment. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying feedback with each key press. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability and versatility, the Maple Leaf delivers a tactile feel that some users prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Maple Leaf, we see a clear distinction in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Gold Red Pro utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf employs nylon for its top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a softer typing sound. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound profile. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Gold Red Pro or the Maple Leaf, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon's softer nature allows for a more cushioned typing experience, making it a popular choice among users who prioritize comfort and reduced noise levels. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to the desired sound profile and tactile feedback that best suits the user's preferences.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the top housing of a switch influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. With the Gold Red Pro and the Maple Leaf each utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect a unique typing experience with each switch. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Gold Red Pro or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the Maple Leaf, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Red Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force with 43 grams compared to the Maple Leaf's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Maple Leaf at 65 grams is heavier than the Gold Red Pro, the bottom out force of which is not specified. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Red Pro due to its lower actuation force, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Maple Leaf with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to the preferences of a diverse range of users, ensuring that they can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Gold Red Pro may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Maple Leaf 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
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a versatile and harmonious typing experience with its neutral sound signature and smooth, polished feel. The switch suits a wide range of users and environments, whether for gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, but based on the information provided, one can expect similar results in terms of adaptability and versatility. Both switches cater to a variety of users and typing preferences, making them solid choices for those seeking a reliable and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but rest assured that both the Gold Red Pro and Maple Leaf switches offer quality performance in different aspects.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. Opt for the Gold Red Pro if you value versatility, a neutral sound signature, and a smooth typing experience for various settings such as gaming, office work, or leisurely typing sessions. On the other hand, choose the Maple Leaf if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal typing style and the specific use case for the keyboard switch.
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