Huano Acacia vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and the TTC Gold Red Pro represent two distinct yet appealing options for typists and gamers alike. The Acacia switch is celebrated for its medium-light weight and exceptional factory lubrication, which results in a smooth typing experience right out of the box, characterized by minimal stem wobble. This makes it an excellent choice for those who seek a responsive and consistent feel during long typing sessions. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility, offering a seamless press that caters to a variety of preferences. Its neutral sound signature strikes a balance between being neither overly pronounced nor too subdued, ensuring that it fits comfortably into any environment—be it for gaming, office work, or casual typing. While the Acacia may appeal to those who prioritize a refined tactile feel, the Gold Red Pro’s adaptability makes it a versatile alternative for users looking for an all-purpose switch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and TTC Gold Red Pro mechanical switches feature identical top housings made from polycarbonate, which significantly impacts their sound profiles. Both switches leverage the properties of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that produces a higher-pitched and crisper sound. This material's translucency also enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. As a result, users can expect an articulate and vibrant audio experience from either switch due to the resonant nature of polycarbonate, allowing for similar performance in terms of auditory feedback and aesthetic presentation.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches employ nylon, providing a stark contrast in tactile and auditory effects when typing. The nylon material is softer compared to polycarbonate, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. It absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder auditory experience that complements the higher pitches produced by the polycarbonate tops. Since the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, the Acacia and Gold Red Pro will deliver a unique typing sensation characterized by this deeper resonance, especially during heavier use.
In summary, while the Huano Acacia and TTC Gold Red Pro switches offer similar sound profiles during release due to their polycarbonate top housings, they diverge in the characteristics imparted by their nylon bottom housings. Users will enjoy the crisp clarity of the switches when actuated as well as a more subdued, intimate sound profile on bottom-out, thanks to the nylon. Hence, both switches can accomplish distinct auditory effects, providing a versatile experience that caters to different user preferences while maintaining a cohesive overall sound signature.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation forces. The Acacia requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Gold Red Pro is slightly lighter at 43 grams. This difference suggests that users who prefer a lighter actuation force may find the Gold Red Pro more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro is unknown, making it difficult to fully assess its feel during use. The Acacia, on the other hand, boasts a bottom out force of 55 grams, which gives a more substantial push feel when the key is completely pressed down. As a result, those who enjoy a more robust typing experience may prefer the Acacia switch, despite its slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, the Acacia is the heavier option, while the Gold Red Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, providing distinct experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Huano Acacia linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm indicates that if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Acacia switch may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which can lead to quicker actuation and faster response times — particularly beneficial for gamers. Conversely, the TTC Gold Red Pro, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying, hearty depth for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience when pressing a key. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in feel and performance, making the choice between them dependent on individual priorities regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Acacia linear switch's characteristics are not detailed, leaving its auditory experience somewhat of a mystery. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is recognized for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. This switch produces a satisfying, bass-heavy tone that delivers a deep "thud" upon actuation and release, making it less intrusive and suitable for various environments. Its moderate sound profile allows it to blend seamlessly into both casual and professional settings, providing versatility that caters to a range of user preferences.
Regarding the feel, the Acacia switch is noted for its medium-light weight and seamless experience thanks to generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble. This suggests a smooth and reliable typing experience that many users will appreciate. The Gold Red Pro switch, on the other hand, stands out for its polished and silky texture, enhancing key travel with minimal resistance. Described as mild and subtle, these switches provide a gentle typing experience, making them approachable for both novices and veterans alike. Together, these aspects contribute to a smooth and enjoyable typing feel for those who seek ease and comfort.
In conclusion, while the Huano Acacia linear switch brings its own strengths to the table with a reliable typing experience, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch impresses with its versatility, sound quality, and polished feel. While the specific sound characteristics of the Acacia remain undefined, the adaptability of the Gold Red Pro makes it a suitable choice for a variety of tasks, whether you’re engaged in serious work or casual gaming. Both switches promise comfort and performance, making either a solid option for users looking to enhance their typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, your decision should hinge on your specific preferences and use cases. If you seek a typing experience that is smooth, lubricated, and offers a medium-light resistance, the Huano Acacia is an excellent choice, especially for those who prefer a tactile sensation that requires a gentle press without overwhelming force. Its construction minimizes stem wobble, ensuring consistent performance straight out of the box. On the other hand, if versatility and a deeper auditory signature are important to you, consider the TTC Gold Red Pro. Its thocky and low-pitched sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback that suits both gaming and professional environments alike. The Gold Red Pro's accessibility and polished feel make it ideal for users who appreciate a tactile experience that accommodates a variety of tasks, from rapid gaming sessions to leisurely typing. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you intend to use the keyboard—whether you prefer the Acacia's refined typing feel or the Gold Red Pro's adaptable and pleasant sound quality.
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