TTC Gold Red vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, some key differences can help guide your decision. The Gold Red offers a smooth typing experience with a light-medium resistance, while also providing a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback. If you're looking for a switch with a subtle and polished feel, the Gold Red may be the way to go. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
The TTC Gold Red and Outemu Milk Blue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this material for their top housings, they may differ in other aspects such as the stem or spring design, affecting overall typing experience.
On the other hand, both switches also utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material can influence the overall typing feel and sound of the switch, as the bottom housing's qualities have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and Outemu Milk Blue switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharp and clear sound, their use of nylon for the bottom housings leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether the switch emphasizes the top or bottom housing material will influence the overall sound and feel of the key press, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Gold Red is lighter in terms of actuation force with 43 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams whereas the Milk Blue's force is unknown. This means that the Gold Red is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch offers a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will experience a similar typing feel and feedback when using either switch. It can be said that the travel distance of both switches is the same, making them equally efficient in providing a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
The Outemu Milk Blue 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in terms of sound. However, with both switches, the actual sound produced will also depend on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red switch is known for its mild and silky characteristics, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience with subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. The polished finish of these switches enhances key travel and minimizes friction, resulting in a sleek and refined typing feel. As for the Outemu Milk Blue switch, there are no specific feel descriptors provided, making it hard to directly compare to the Gold Red in terms of typing experience. However, if the Milk Blue switch is similar in design to other clicky switches, it may offer a more tactile and audible typing experience compared to the linear Gold Red.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky sound profile and a mild, silky feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have specific descriptors available for sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and gentle typing feel, the TTC Gold Red may be the better option for you, while if you are looking for a more tactile and clicky typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue could be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Gold Red linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience without a specified bottom out force requirement, the Milk Blue clicky switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and needs to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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