TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC bluish white, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type S, a linear switch. The bluish white is loved for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience, offering a snappy sound profile and categorized as 'buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, polished, low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is known for its weightier keystroke and contemporary factory lubing techniques, providing a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience and categorized as 'neutral, subdued'. While the bluish white may appeal to those who enjoy a tactile typing sensation, the Gateron Type S is ideal for those who prefer a smoother keystroke with a deeper sound profile. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and Gateron Type S both feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the Bluish White stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Type S uses a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile, but with a softer and more absorbent quality that creates a duller and rounder sound.
Although both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housings contribute to distinct sound profiles. The TTC Bluish White's polycarbonate top housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of its sound, while the Gateron Type S's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of material for the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound experience when typing on these switches, with polycarbonate providing a crisper sound upon key release compared to the Type S's softer and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches showcase the classic switch housing material of nylon in their bottom housings, which brings a consistent depth and fullness to their sound profiles.
In summary, the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Type S offer contrasting sound profiles due to their top housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White emphasizes a sharp and clear sound, while the nylon top housing of the Type S produces a deeper and fuller sound. These differences reflect the impact of housing materials on the overall sound experience of mechanical switches. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a common depth and fullness in their sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound characteristics such as sharpness, depth, or overall tone.
Weight
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The Bluish White switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Type S switch is better suited for those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Type S linear switch. The Bluish White switch would provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the Type S switch due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster key presses may prefer the Bluish White switch for this reason. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Type S switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched and snappy sound profile, providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound signature, leaning towards a deeper acoustic experience. The Type S may appeal to those who prefer a more muted typing sound, while the Bluish White will cater to those who enjoy a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the sound experience will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bluish White switch is described as offering a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. These qualities combine to provide a smooth, gentle, and refined keystroke that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not available. This lack of descriptors suggests that the Type S may have a more standard typing feel compared to the unique characteristics of the Bluish White.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a low-pitched and snappy sound profile along with a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing feel, the TTC Bluish White switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a neutral and subdued sound signature, the Gateron Type S might be more suitable. Keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for each user, so it is recommended to try out different switches before making a final decision.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Bluish White tactile switch or the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a snappy, low-pitched sound profile with a buttery and mild typing experience, then the TTC Bluish White tactile switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral, subdued sound profile with a polished and subtle typing feel, then the Gateron Type S linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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