TTC Flaming Pink vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can dramatically influence your typing and gaming experience. The TTC Flaming Pink switches stand out for their smooth, responsive feel and a pleasant bottom-out sound that caters to users seeking a refined typing experience, making them suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks. Their bright yet modest sound profile ensures that they don't overpower your setup while delivering a premium sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switches are engineered for rapid responsiveness, featuring a shortened travel distance that culminates in a decisive bottom-out, offering a solid sense of closure with every press. This switch combines precision and resonance, producing a satisfying sound signature alongside its smooth actuation, which makes it ideal for those who prioritize speed and fluidity. With both switches offering unique attributes, the choice often comes down to personal preference—whether you value the versatility and refined feel of the Flaming Pink or the swift action and tactile feedback of the Gold Silver. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Pink and the TTC Gold Silver switches share a significant similarity in their top housing, both utilizing polycarbonate as their material. This choice results in a notably sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer resonance, allowing users to enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also makes these switches particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups. In scenarios where RGB lighting is utilized, both the Flaming Pink and Gold Silver switches will deliver similar luminous effects, thanks to their identical top housing composition.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is crafted from nylon, a classic choice known for its sound-dampening properties. This nylon material gives both switches a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, the overall auditory experience while typing on both switches is defined by a duller, rounder sound, which contrasts with the upper clear and bright tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This synergy between the nylon bottom and polycarbonate top creates a balanced auditory experience that users can enjoy across both models.
Despite the TTC Flaming Pink and Gold Silver switches being crafted from different materials for their top and bottom housings, they manage to complement each other seamlessly. The polycarbonate top housing ensures that sound clarity is prioritized upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing guarantees a solid, full-bodied sound at key press engagement. As a result, users can expect a harmonious blend of sound characteristics that are pleasing and functional, regardless of the specific switch they choose. Thus, anyone interested in either model can count on a similar and enjoyable typing experience, defined by the strengths of both housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, notable distinctions arise in their actuation forces. The Flaming Pink features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, whereas the Gold Silver requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference suggests that for those who prefer a lighter touch, the Flaming Pink might be a better choice, especially for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Furthermore, the Flaming Pink has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a clear feedback when the switch is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Gold Silver switch is currently unavailable, which adds a layer of uncertainty to its overall tactile experience. With the Flaming Pink being the lighter option, it may be more suitable for users who value comfort during extended use, while the Gold Silver, with its heavier actuation force, caters to those who prefer a more substantial push feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, we see that the Flaming Pink measures at 3.6 mm, while the Gold Silver is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Flaming Pink the longer option by 0.1 mm. For users who prefer a more responsive feel, the Gold Silver’s shorter travel distance may be advantageous, offering faster key actuation that is often favored by gamers. Conversely, the Flaming Pink could provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a little more movement in their key presses. Ultimately, your choice will depend on personal preference—if you prioritize speed, the Gold Silver might be the way to go; however, if you prefer a deeper, more deliberate keystroke, the Flaming Pink could be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 TTC Flaming Pink linear switch delivers a bright yet not overly loud sound profile, allowing for a satisfyingly soft bottom-out sound that is well-suited for both gaming and casual typing. The tone strikes a balance, making it pleasant for diverse environments without being intrusive. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch exhibits a thocky and low-pitched sound characterized by a deep, rich profile akin to a gentle thud or soft knock. This resonance enhances the tactile experience, providing users with a solid auditory feedback. While the Flaming Pink leans towards a peripheral presence, the Gold Silver offers a more pronounced and rich acoustic experience, both delivering satisfying results but in distinctly different audio signatures.
When it comes to feel, the Flaming Pink boasts a smooth, responsive typing experience characterized by its refined mechanics. Users will likely appreciate its seamless key travel, though specific descriptors of its tactile qualities were not provided. In contrast, the Gold Silver is described with a mix of attributes including polished and silky sensations, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch's mild and subtle characteristics imply a typing experience that encourages comfortable usage for extended periods and is easy on the fingers. The Flaming Pink offers a satisfying touch, while the Gold Silver promises an exceptionally smooth and refined response.
Considering both the sound and feel of these switches, the TTC Flaming Pink and TTC Gold Silver each provide unique experiences. The Flaming Pink shines with its soft acoustic profile and smooth responsiveness, making it ideal for users who prefer a gentler touch and a more subdued sound. In comparison, the Gold Silver caters to those who value decisiveness and a more resonant sound with its rapid responsiveness and refined feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a brighter sound and smooth feel or a more substantial auditory presence and silky typing experience. Regardless of choice, both switches will deliver satisfaction that caters to various typing preferences and settings.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing needs and personal preferences. If you're looking for a smooth and responsive feel with a light bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Flaming Pink is an excellent choice for both gaming and everyday typing. Its bright yet not overly loud sound profile makes it a solid option for shared spaces or if you prefer a less intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you're after rapid responsiveness and a decisive bottom-out with each keystroke, the Gold Silver will truly excel. The tactile sensation is polished and silky, providing a sense of closure that many typists appreciate, while its low-pitched, thocky sound signature adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. Thus, if you value speed and fluidity, particularly in fast-paced gaming scenarios, the Gold Silver might be your best bet. In summary, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a light touch and a smooth, pleasant sound from the Flaming Pink or the precision and robust feedback of the Gold Silver.
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