Gateron Glory Red vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Gold Brown present two distinct yet appealing options for different typing preferences. The Glory Red switches are renowned for their lighter feel and smooth keystroke, providing a quick and effortless typing experience that many users find enjoyable, especially for gaming where speed is paramount. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown switches are characterized by their balanced performance, featuring a tactile bump that delivers a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Their moderate weight gives a sense of stability, while the rounded sound profile remains gentle, making them suitable for a more office-friendly environment. While the Glory Red caters to those who prioritize swift key presses, the Gold Brown appeals to those who appreciate tactile feedback while typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and TTC Gold Brown switches, the most significant distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Glory Red switch employs a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer, sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Gold Brown switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, more resonant sound. This difference in material not only affects the acoustic qualities of the switches but also their interaction with RGB lighting; the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for illuminating switches in a visually striking manner.
Despite the contrasting materials used for the top housings, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, creating a shared auditory experience in that aspect. The nylon bottom housing imparts a similar deep and rounded sound profile for both the Glory Red and Gold Brown switches. As such, when typing, users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound that is rich and full, regardless of the differences in their top housings. This design choice unifies the experience of both switches—while they sound distinct during the upstroke due to the different top materials, the sound remains consistent upon bottoming out.
Overall, the impact of each housing material presents a nuanced listening experience when using these switches. While the top housing significantly influences sound clarity and pitch during the release of a keypress, the bottom housing governs the bottom-out feel and sound. Users of the Gateron Glory Red switches will enjoy a deeper auditory experience while those using TTC Gold Brown switches will appreciate a clearer, more resonant sound. Ultimately, both switches provide complementary qualities that cater to different preferences, yet maintain a cohesive auditory foundation thanks to their nylon bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics. The Gateron Glory Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the TTC Gold Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Glory Red is the lighter of the two switches, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. However, the Glory Red's bottom out force is not specified, which leaves us unable to draw a comparison on that metric. In contrast, the Gold Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a more substantial feedback when fully pressed. This higher bottom out force contributes to a firmer typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Overall, users looking for a lighter keystroke will gravitate toward the Glory Red, while those who appreciate a heavier, more defined push may opt for the Gold Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Glory Red switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Gold Brown switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer. This difference in travel distance can impact the responsiveness and feel of each switch. The shorter 3.6 mm distance of the Glory Red may cater more to gamers seeking quick response times, whereas the Gold Brown's 4 mm distance offers a more pronounced tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more traditional typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch is noted for providing a smooth auditory experience during typing, which enhances the overall enjoyment. While specific details on its sound profile are not provided, it typically produces a relatively softer sound than many other linear switches. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a rounded sound profile that is softer than most mechanical switches while maintaining a neutral tone. This moderate sound level ensures that the Gold Browns are versatile and can be suitable for various environments, whether in a workspace or at home.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Gateron Glory Red delivers a smooth and effortless keystroke, making it appealing for those who prefer a light and linear typing experience. While explicit descriptors are not given, linear switches like the Glory Red are typically characterized by a continuous keystroke without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown offers a balanced, mild tactile feedback, presenting a gentle typing experience. With descriptors such as buttery, accented, and polished, the Gold Brown provides a smooth travel without the overwhelming characteristics found in more pronounced tactile switches. Its medium tactility strikes a perfect balance for users who appreciate subtle feedback without feeling overwhelmed.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Gateron Glory Red, with its smooth keystroke experience, is ideal for users seeking linear functionality without much interaction, while the TTC Gold Brown delivers a pleasant tactile sensation that feels neither too pronounced nor too minimal. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on the user’s personal preference towards sound profile and typing feel, as both switches promise a satisfying typing experience in their own respective ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter touch and smooth keystrokes, the Glory Red switches are ideal for fast typing or gaming, as they facilitate quick key presses without the distraction of tactile bumps or significant actuation force. This makes them a suitable option for those who love straightforward, uninterrupted keystrokes with an enjoyable travel distance. On the other hand, if you value a balanced typing experience that enhances your feedback with a mild tactile bump, the TTC Gold Brown switches are a great choice. Their moderate weight and gentle actuation will appeal to both beginners and seasoned typists, making them versatile for various settings, be it work or home. The rounded sound profile and polished feel of the Gold Browns offer a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, striking a pleasing balance for those who enjoy a bit of feedback without being overwhelmed. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you lean towards speed and smoothness or prefer a gentle tactile response with a touch of auditory satisfaction.
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