TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Bluish White is a tactile switch that provides a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is a linear switch that revolutionizes silent typing with its innovative design, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and sound absorption. While the Bluish White is best suited for those who prefer a tactile and mildly clicky typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° is ideal for those who desire a quiet and smooth typing experience. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we find that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. Despite both switches sharing this top housing material, differences may arise in the sound profile depending on other factors such as stem design or overall switch construction.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the TTC Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon in the bottom housing. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, other factors such as spring weight or keycap material can contribute to variations in sound and feel when using these switches.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note how these materials affect the sound and feel of key presses. The split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch can influence the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing primarily impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While both the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature similar housing materials, the overall typing experience may vary due to factors such as stem design, spring weight, and keycap material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Zero Degree 0°. However, the Bluish White also has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for triggering keystrokes, and a lighter force like that of the Bluish White may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the heavier bottom out force of the Bluish White may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° may suit those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Bluish White. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0° due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key press depth 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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
In terms of sound, the Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched tone, which brings a bass-heavy and mellow sound to your typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified, so it is unknown how it compares in terms of pitch and tone. It's important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bluish White switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, providing a seamless, gentle, and refined typing sensation. The tactile feedback is said to be subtle and the typing experience polished, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. Meanwhile, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not specified. Without further information, it is unclear how the feel of this switch compares to the multifaceted qualities of the Bluish White.
In conclusion, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is characterized by a satisfyingly poppy sound profile and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, details about the sound and feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch remain unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. If you desire a tactile switch with low-pitched, buttery sound and a variety of subtle and polished feel characteristics, the Bluish White may be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a linear switch with innovative features such as self-padding design and dual-rail structure, your experience with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch may yield similar results. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your typing preference and environment. If you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light 50-gram bottom out force and a low-pitched, buttery feel, the Bluish White switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch with its innovative self-padding design may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preferences, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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