TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Weightlessness stand out as two excellent options for tactile switch enthusiasts. The TTC Bluish White switches are celebrated for their satisfyingly poppy typing experience, boasting a snappy, low-pitched sound profile that many users find both engaging and enjoyable. This makes them ideal for those who appreciate a keyboard that delivers both auditory and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches provide a more subtle to moderate tactile feel, with a balanced sound profile that complements their tactile characteristics, making them suitable for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Ultimately, each switch brings unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Weightlessness switches present a fascinating contrast, particularly in their top housing composition. The Bluish White utilizes polycarbonate for its top section, known for producing a sharper and clearer sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This characteristic enhances the keypress sound, making it crisper and more resonant, which can be particularly appealing to users looking for a punchy auditory response. Additionally, the polycarbonate top's transparency makes it ideally suited for RGB lighting applications, as it allows light to shine through and create vibrant visual effects. In stark contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness features a nylon top housing. While nylon is a classic choice that allows for excellent sound absorption, it yields a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This significant difference influences the overall auditory experience when typing, as users of the Weightlessness may enjoy a softer and more muted keypress noise.
Looking at the bottom housings, both switches share a similarity in their use of nylon, which exhibits properties conducive to creating a fuller and deeper sound. This means that regardless of the differences observed in the top housings, the typing experience on both switches will achieve a degree of acoustic richness owing to the nylon materials used in the bottom sections. Both switches will thus produce a sound that feels weightier and softer, as they effectively absorb sound due to the softer plastic composition. The nylon bottom housing will play a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback, allowing users to enjoy a pleasant typing experience that does not differ significantly between the two models.
Overall, the combination of distinct top housing materials contributes to a varied typing sound and feel for the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Weightlessness switches. The polycarbonate top of the Bluish White enhances sound clarity and brightness, while the nylon top of the Weightlessness places emphasis on warmth and roundness in sound. However, since both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, they will parallel one another in producing a fuller auditory experience during keypresses. This interplay of materials, with one switch encapsulating the sharpness of polycarbonate and the other the warmth of nylon, demonstrates how different combinations can influence user experience and satisfaction in mechanical keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Bluish White features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience conducive to prolonged use. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a heavier push feel that may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. The bottom-out force for the Weightlessness is currently unknown, so we cannot draw a direct comparison there. Overall, the Bluish White is the lighter switch, while the Weightlessness provides a heftier sensation. This means that users looking for a lighter option may find the TTC Bluish White more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those preferring a stronger push may gravitate towards the Gateron Weightlessness.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there is a slight distinction: the Bluish White features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Weightlessness offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Bluish White has a marginally longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may be more satisfying for those who enjoy a hearty key feel. In contrast, the Weightlessness, with its shorter travel distance, aligns with the current trend towards faster actuation, making it a potential favorite for gamers seeking quick response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 switches produce a low-pitched, snappy sound profile that contributes to an engaging typing experience. This low-pitched characteristic is often favored by typists who enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow auditory feedback, enhancing the tactile nature of their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches are noted for having a balanced sound profile, which suggests a more neutral auditory experience. While the specifics of their sound output haven’t been detailed, their balance likely makes them less distracting in shared environments, creating a pleasant atmosphere for both the typist and those around them.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White switches excel with a range of tactile characteristics. Users can expect a buttery smooth keystroke along with mild yet stepped tactile feedback, allowing for seamless typing while still being aware of each keystroke. This switch also offers polished keystrokes that minimize friction and enhance overall comfort. The result is an efficient typing experience that is both responsive and satisfying. Unfortunately, specific details regarding the feel of the Gateron Weightlessness switches are not provided, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, the mention of a subtle to moderate tactile response suggests a gentler typing experience that caters to those preferring softer feedback without sacrificing the tactile sensation entirely.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches offer unique experiences, the Bluish White stands out with its distinct sound and varied tactile characteristics. The low-pitched sound and defined tactile feel of the Bluish White make it a top choice for those looking for a pronounced typing experience. Conversely, the Weightlessness switches may appeal to users seeking a more subdued yet balanced feel and sound. Thus, your choice should align with your preferences in sound and typing sensations, ensuring that either switch can deliver satisfying results based on individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a lighter touch with a more pronounced tactile feedback, the TTC Bluish White is an excellent option, offering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a buttery feel, ideal for those who enjoy a lively and engaging typing experience. Their low-pitched sound can also be a delight in a shared space. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother, more subtle typing experience without the distraction of heightened sound and tactile feedback, the Gateron Weightlessness switches would suit you better. Their moderate tactile feel and balanced sound profile make them great for quieter settings or prolonged typing sessions, as they provide a gentle yet satisfying response. Ultimately, your choice should align with the kind of feedback and auditory stimulation you seek in your typing experience, ensuring that you enjoy every keystroke on your mechanical keyboard.
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