Bsun Pine vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Pine and TTC Gold Red offer unique experiences worth considering. The Bsun Pine stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and crisp feedback for a no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red boasts a smooth and light-medium resistance linear switch, with a subtle yet snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overwhelming. While the Pine excels in accentuated tactility, the Gold Red offers a polished and silky 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
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 housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the TTC Gold Red are quite similar in terms of the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material also lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the TTC Gold Red share many similarities, they also have their own unique characteristics. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing may have a slightly different feel and sound compared to the Gold Red due to variations in manufacturing processes and overall design. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of each switch may offer a slightly different typing experience in terms of sound and feel. These subtle differences can contribute to the overall user experience and preference for one switch over the other.
In terms of overall performance, the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the TTC Gold Red contribute to a high-quality typing experience. Both switches offer a balance of crisp and sharp sound from the polycarbonate top housing, as well as a deep and full sound from the nylon bottom housing. While there may be slight differences in sound and feel between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red linear switch's 43 grams, making the Pine slightly heavier in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Pine at 65 grams is heavier than the Gold Red's 50 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience with the Pine. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Gold Red switch, while the Pine switch would be more suitable for users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the TTC Gold Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Gold Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, so in terms of overall key feel and performance, you can expect similar results from both, with slight differences in keypress feedback and response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp and distinct clicky sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overly loud or distracting. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the surrounding environment.
Moving on to the feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a tactile typing experience with a prominent tactile bump and quick responsiveness. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel, giving typists a smooth and gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. While the Pine switch focuses on a sharp and snappy tactile feedback, the Gold Red switch prioritizes a smooth and refined typing feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and TTC Gold Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp tactile bump and fast feedback, while the Gold Red switch offers a smoother and more subtle typing experience. Typists looking for a direct and intense tactile feedback may prefer the Pine switch, while those seeking a smoother and more gentle typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, as both can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values a sharp tactile bump and fast action, then the BSUN Pine tactile switch with its 65-gram bottom out force would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a lighter 50-gram bottom out force, then the TTC Gold Red linear switch would suit your preferences better. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to your personal typing preferences and priorities. Whether you appreciate strong tactility or desire a smoother typing experience, both the Pine and Gold Red switches have their own strengths to cater to different typing styles and preferences. So, consider these factors carefully before deciding which switch would best enhance your typing experience.
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