Huano Acacia vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Huano Acacia, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch. The Acacia is notable for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, delivering an exceptional typing experience right out of the box. Ideal for those who prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, the Acacia switch appeals to gamers and typists alike who value speed and fluidity. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switches are characterized by their balanced nature, featuring a slight, satisfying tactile bump that provides noticeable feedback while typing. Their moderate weightiness and rounded sound profile make them a perfect choice for users who enjoy the tactile sensation without overwhelming noise. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Acacia leans towards a silky-smooth experience, while the Gold Brown offers a more dynamic feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The comparison of the housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the TTC Gold Brown reveals a remarkable similarity in their construction. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is well-known for its acoustical properties. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, primarily due to the stiffness of the material. This has significant implications for users looking for a clear and resonant sound when typing, as the acoustics are optimized by the characteristics of the polycarbonate. Additionally, both switches utilize a translucent design that enhances their aesthetic appeal, particularly when illuminated by RGB lighting. This congruence in top housing material suggests that users can expect similar auditory outcomes from both switches when considering their sound profiles.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Huano Acacia and the TTC Gold Brown both employ nylon, a classic material well-regarded for its acoustic properties. This choice results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound and creates a rounded auditory quality. This aspect becomes particularly noticeable during key bottoming-out, where the nylon's sound-absorbing qualities create a more muted impact compared to the sharper tonal qualities produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Therefore, while both switches share a similarity in that they utilize nylon, their differing materials for the top and bottom housings bring about a unique interplay in sound character between the two.
When evaluating the overall sound and feel of these switches, it's essential to recognize how the integration of polycarbonate and nylon impacts the user experience. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the top release sound, producing a brighter and clearer tone, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer tonal quality during the actuation and bottoming-out phases. This combination allows for a balanced typing experience where the positive aspects of both materials work together. Consequently, whether one is using the Huano Acacia or the TTC Gold Brown, users can expect a harmonious blend of acoustic characteristics, provided by the thoughtful selection of materials in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch to the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Acacia has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Gold Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, positioning it in the medium range. This means the Acacia is the lighter option, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended work or gaming sessions. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing might lean towards the heavier Gold Brown switch, which provides a greater resistance that some users find preferable. The different actuation and bottom out forces indicate that users can expect distinct tactile experiences between the two switches, contributing to personal preference in keyboard setup.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, we find that the Acacia has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gold Brown measures at 4 mm. This means that the Acacia offers a shorter travel distance, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time often favored by gamers. In contrast, the longer travel distance of 4 mm for the Gold Brown provides a more substantial feel, which some users may appreciate for its more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive switch, the Acacia would be the better choice, whereas the Gold Brown would suit those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile experience while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown 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 Brown for $3.28.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
The sound profile of the Huano Acacia linear switch is typically quiet and unobtrusive, making it a great choice for environments where noise levels are a concern. Its design focuses on providing a pleasant typing experience without any sharp or distracting sounds. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch features a rounded sound profile that is softer than many other mechanical switches but still offers a neutral sound that won’t disrupt those nearby. This moderate sound level achieves a balance that makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. While both switches can provide a relatively subdued auditory experience, the Acacia might lean slightly more towards silence due to its linear nature, whereas the Gold Brown has a mild auditory bump that accompanies its tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Acacia provides a smooth and responsive experience, characterized by its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication. The switch minimizes stem wobble, which contributes to a refined keystroke that feels effortless and consistent. Conversely, the TTC Gold Brown switches offer a more pronounced tactile bump, delivering a mild yet satisfying feedback that distinguishes each keystroke without overwhelming the typist. This tactile nature, combined with a polished finish, results in a buttery-smooth keypress that is enjoyable for most users. The tactile bump of the Gold Brown lends it a touch of character, while the Acacia’s linear feel continues to offer a seamless typing experience.
In summary, both the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch are designed to deliver excellent typing experiences, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Acacia leans towards a quieter and more fluid feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a linear response, whereas the Gold Brown provides a moderate tactile feedback that enhances engagement with each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches can yield satisfying results, and your choice will depend on whether you favor a smoother, linear action or a gentle tactile bump during typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a light and smooth typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Acacia is a fantastic option due to its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, providing a seamless feel right out of the box. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize a fluid keystroke for extended typing sessions or gaming, where swift, uninterrupted key presses are essential. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a slightly heavier keystroke, the TTC Gold Brown is well-suited for you. Its balanced design, featuring a mild tactile bump and a rounded sound profile, offers a satisfying typing experience without being too harsh or noisy, making it versatile for both work and casual use. In summary, choose the Acacia for a smoother, lighter touch and effortless flow, or opt for the Gold Brown for a more grounded, tactile sensation that strikes a harmonious balance across various typing tasks.
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