Gateron Aliaz vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Gold Pink mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they cater to different preferences and needs. The Aliaz switch is well-suited for quiet environments such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight that provides a substantial typing feel without the noise. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch is known for its light 37g actuation force, perfect for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience, especially for gaming. While the Aliaz switch boasts a muted and polished feel, the Gold Pink switch offers a buttery and subtle typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Gold Pink lies in their bottom housing materials. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate material of the Aliaz may result in a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon material of the Gold Pink absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
Both the Aliaz and the Gold Pink have polycarbonate top housings, which offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in top housings produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. This means that in terms of the sound produced and the aesthetic appeal of the switches, users can expect similar results from both the Aliaz and the Gold Pink due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing material of a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, on the other hand, has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Gold Pink will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, it is clear that the Aliaz is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Gold Pink is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Aliaz requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Gold Pink. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Aliaz for a more substantial typing experience, while those who prefer a lighter touch may choose the Gold Pink for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that regardless of whether you choose the Aliaz or the Gold Pink, you will get consistent results in terms of the distance the switch travels. This shared characteristic makes it difficult to compare and contrast the travel distance of these two switches, as they both offer the same amount of key travel. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in this aspect when using either the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the TTC Gold Pink linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best known for its muted sound profile,.. This switch provides a quieter and softer typing experience compared to the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, making it ideal for use in office settings where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound, providing a more audible typing feedback. When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a light and gentle typing feel with little resistance. Overall, while the Aliaz switch caters to those seeking a more substantial and quiet typing experience, the Gold Pink switch is perfect for those looking for a light and lively typing sensation. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a typing experience suited for a quiet environment like an office, with a medium-heavy weight and pronounced feedback, then the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light and lively typing experience with a lower actuation force, perfect for rapid typing or gaming, then the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for weight, sound, and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what best suits your typing needs.
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