Bsun Pine vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and the TTC Gold Brown both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility that is appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced nature, with a subtle bump and moderate weightiness that offers a softer sound profile compared to most switches. While the Pine switch may be preferred for its invigorating and snappy feel, the Gold Brown switch's buttery and polished characteristics may appeal to those looking for a more neutral and mild 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the TTC Gold Brown both utilize polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches if RGB lighting is a feature you want to incorporate. On the other hand, the Nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite differences in the top and bottom housing materials, both switches benefit from the combination of polycarbonate and Nylon in providing a balanced sound experience.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Bsun Pine and TTC Gold Brown differ in their bottom housing materials. The Pine utilizes Nylon for its bottom housing, while the Gold Brown also utilizes Nylon for this component. This uniformity in bottom housing material means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile created by Nylon. However, the impact of each housing material on the sound and feel of the switch will be distributed differently - with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the Bsun Pine and TTC Gold Brown share similarities in their use of polycarbonate top housings to create a sharp and clear sound profile. Both switches also feature Nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the distribution of the qualities of each housing material may vary between the two switches, the overall result will likely be quite similar due to the consistent use of Nylon throughout. Ultimately, whether you choose the Pine or the Gold Brown, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with a balanced and resonant sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Pine has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Gold Brown at 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Pine at 65 grams is heavier than the Gold Brown at 63 grams. The Pine switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Gold Brown offers a medium level of force. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches can cater to different preferences, with the Pine being lighter for longer typing sessions and the Gold Brown providing a slightly stronger push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine. The Pine with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Brown with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper press feel when typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their distinct travel distances, so choose based on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
When it comes to the sound produced by the switches, the BSUN Pine offers a sharp and crisp click due to its strong tactile bump and quick bottom-out. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown provides a more rounded and softer sound profile that is not completely silent but is generally much gentler compared to other switches. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Pine being more direct and pronounced, while the Gold Brown leans towards a more balanced and subdued sound output.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile experience with a strong and distinct tactile bump. The switch is known for its snappy and responsive feel, offering a tactile sensation that is not overwhelming but still prominent. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience, providing a gentle tactile feedback that is approachable to most users. The Gold Brown switch falls in a safe middle ground zone with its smooth and polished feel, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle tactile sensation.
Overall, the BSUN Pine and TTC Gold Brown switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch excels in providing a sharp and direct sound with an invigorating and snappy tactile feel, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch offers a balanced and gentle sound with a mild and buttery feel, catering to users who enjoy a smoother and more subdued typing sensation. Depending on personal preference, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience and cater to different user needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a highly tactile and snappy typing experience with a distinct and quick bottom-out, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced tactile feel with a soft sound profile and a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for the level of tactility, sound profile, and overall typing experience you desire. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.