Bsun Cliff vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Cliff and TTC Gold Pink offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cliff switch is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it a great choice for those who appreciate tactile feedback while typing or gaming. This tactile characteristic can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying sense of engagement with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink switches are known for their remarkably light 37g actuation force, designed for users who prioritize speed and a smooth, effortless typing experience. The lightness of these switches, coupled with their lively clacky sound, makes them particularly appealing to fast typists and gamers seeking rapid key presses. While both switches have their unique appeals—tactile feedback versus lightness—their differences also highlight how personal preference can significantly influence the choice of a switch. 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
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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 Cliff and the TTC Gold Pink switches exhibit a remarkable similarity in their top housing components, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material is significant due to its stiffer nature, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucence of polycarbonate also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it ideal for users looking to create visually stunning keyboard setups. As a result, both switches will likely yield comparable auditory experiences, particularly when considering the clarity and resonance that comes from the polycarbonate top, which will be evident during both key presses and releases.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and TTC Gold Pink switches reveal a uniformity as well, with both switches incorporating nylon. This classic switch housing material brings forth a different auditory characteristic that is opposed to the top housing's sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer texture that absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. While the polycarbonate top is responsible for the crispness during the release of the key, the nylon bottom complements this by providing a rounder and more contained sound experience upon bottoming out. Hence, the combined effects of these two distinct materials on the auditory profile create a well-rounded acoustic experience.
Overall, both the Bsun Cliff and TTC Gold Pink switches showcase a harmonious interaction between their housing materials, where the top polycarbonate and bottom nylon come together to produce a dynamic typing experience. The combination enriches the switch's auditory characteristics, with the polycarbonate amplifying clarity during key releases while the nylon provides depth during key presses. Consequently, regardless of the individuality of the switches, users can expect a fusion of sharpness and fullness that exemplifies the strengths of both materials. This thoughtfully crafted design results in a multifaceted sound profile that pleases users who appreciate both clarity and warmth in their typing experience.
Weight
Both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch exhibit the same actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing them as light switches. Since their actuation and bottom out forces are equal, users can expect a similar typing experience with both switches. This similarity makes them ideal for prolonged typing sessions, whether at work or during extended gaming marathons, as the lighter actuation force allows for less strain on the fingers. Ultimately, those who enjoy a lighter touch will find both options equally satisfying in their responsiveness and ease of use.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cliff switch the shorter of the two, which can be beneficial for gamers or those seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a deeper feel and a more pronounced keypress, offering a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Cliff allows for quicker actuation, whereas the Gold Pink provides a more traditional depth suited for those who appreciate a heavier tactile response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is noted for its crisp audio signature, which offers a definitive auditory cue when the switch is activated. This can make typing feel more engaging as each keystroke provides a satisfying sound response. In contrast, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch produces a distinctly clacky sound, adding a lively aspect to every keypress. This switch is characterized by a lighter actuation force that contributes to a more playful auditory experience. However, it’s important to note that the sound produced by any switch is influenced by additional factors, including the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, which means that individual experiences may vary.
Regarding feel, the Cliff tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility, allowing for a balanced typing experience that offers sufficient feedback without being overly pronounced. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate a tactile response but don’t want it to dominate their typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switches are described with various qualitative traits, including buttery and polished characteristics. It is exceptionally light, requiring minimal effort to actuate, which is especially favorable for long typing sessions. The Gold Pink’s mild and feathery feel contributes to a smooth and seamless keypress, making it ideal for users who prefer an effortless typing experience. This combination of qualities allows for a typing sensation that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue over prolonged usage.
In summary, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch present unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Cliff offers a crisp sound and a moderate tactile feel, while the Gold Pink switches deliver a light, clacky noise and buttery smoothness that reduces the effort needed per keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a tactile feedback experience or a lighter, more fluid typing sensation, but either option is sure to satisfy different facets of typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. If you appreciate a tactile response with crisp feedback and enjoy the sound of your keystrokes, the Cliff is an excellent choice. Its medium tactility allows for a satisfying typing experience without being overly aggressive, making it suitable for both casual typing and light gaming. Additionally, if you often find yourself in shared workspaces, the Cliff’s sound signature can be relatively restrained, which can help maintain a quieter environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a fast, fluid typing experience with minimal resistance, the Gold Pink is likely your best bet. Its incredibly light actuation force and feathery feel facilitate rapid key presses, perfect for gamers and individuals who type swiftly. The lively clack sound adds an engaging auditory layer to your interactions with the keyboard. Therefore, your choice ultimately depends on whether you value tactile feedback and sound or prioritize speed and a more effortless keystroke.
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