Gateron Glory Red vs. TTC Gold Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Gold Silver stand out as two excellent linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches are renowned for their lighter touch, providing a smooth keystroke with an optimal travel distance that results in an enjoyable typing experience. This makes them a great choice for users who prefer a more effortless typing action, ideal for extended use during gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver switches are characterized by their rapid responsiveness and shortened travel distance. Each keystroke culminates in a satisfying and decisive bottom-out, providing a tangible sense of closure that many typists find gratifying. Furthermore, the Gold Silver offers a resonant sound signature, blending speed and fluidity for an immersive experience. While both switches appeal to linear switch enthusiasts, their distinct attributes present different advantages depending on user preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Glory Red and TTC Gold Silver switches feature distinctly different top housing materials, which significantly impacts their sound profiles. The Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic nature. This material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a subdued and rounded sound when typing. In contrast, the Gold Silver employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clarity and resonant quality of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for those who enjoy an auditory experience that is more vibrant and pronounced, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucence.

Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, leading to a consistent auditory experience regarding the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon. This shared quality ensures that regardless of the top housing differences, users will still experience a semblance of the rounded sound that is typical when the bottom housing is engaged. As the bottom housing has a more substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses, both switches can maintain similar acoustic characteristics in that phase of interaction.

Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials allows each switch to deliver unique sound profiles in different contexts. The Glory Red, with its nylon top housing, excels in providing a muted sound experience, while the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing introduces a more pronounced and crisp auditory feedback. When pressed, users will feel the effects of the nylon bottom in both switches, reinforcing the full and deep sound profile on bottoming out. However, it’s during release that the distinction between the soft yet absorbing nature of nylon and the resonant clarity of polycarbonate becomes abundantly clear. Each material plays a vital role in shaping the overall sound profile, and thus, the user’s typing experience can be tailored based on their preference for either rounded warmth or crisp clarity.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, both switches exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this regard. This means users can expect a similar ease of triggering a keystroke with either switch, potentially benefiting those who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces for both switches are listed as unavailable, which leaves an aspect of their performance undisclosed. Without this information, we cannot directly compare how each switch feels when pressed all the way down, or whether one might feel heavier than the other in that context. Nonetheless, with their matching actuation forces, users are likely to experience comparable results in terms of initial key press feel, making either switch a suitable choice depending on personal preference for lighter or heavier key presses.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Red linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, the Glory Red offers a bit more depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gold Silver, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers seeking quicker response times due to the reduced distance the key must travel. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, those who prioritize speed might favor the Gold Silver for its responsiveness, whereas those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a deeper keystroke could opt for the Glory Red. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your keyboard experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch is known for its neutral profile, offering moderate sound characteristics that are suitable for both home and work environments. While the specific sound qualities are not detailed, the Glory Red generally provides a non-intrusive acoustic experience, which is a significant advantage for users in shared spaces or quiet settings. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver boasts a thocky and low-pitched sound signature, characterized by a deep, satisfying thud upon actuation. This switch creates an auditory experience rich in resonance, which many enthusiasts appreciate for its pleasing feedback during typing. The overall sound dynamics of the Gold Silver may be more pronounced and satisfying for those who enjoy tactile auditory confirmation of their keystrokes, but it's essential to note that sound quality can vary based on factors like the keyboard's frame and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Red delivers a smooth keystroke that many typists find enjoyable due to its pleasing travel distance. Although more specifics about its tactile feedback are not available, it is often regarded as a solid choice for a linear switch typist or gamer looking to experience minimal friction during key presses. Conversely, the TTC Gold Silver excels with a polished and silky texture that allows for a refined typing experience. This switch is characterized by its smoothness and minimal resistance, making each keystroke feel effortless. As a mild and subtle option, it blends speed and smoothness, ideal for users who favor fluidity in their typing without aggressive tactile feedback. The Gold Silver therefore appeals to those who crave efficiency and crisp feedback throughout their use.

Overall, while both the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Gold Silver switches offer appealing characteristics, they do cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The Glory Red is more neutral and smooth, making it a versatile choice for everyday use, while the Gold Silver stands out with its resonant sound and exceptional smoothness, pushing the boundaries of responsiveness in each keystroke. Both can deliver satisfying typing experiences, but the Gold Silver might be more compelling for those who prioritize a richer sound and a seamless feel. Ultimately, selecting between these two options hinges on personal preference, as each switch has its unique strengths that cater to varying typing styles and environments.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Red and the TTC Gold Silver switches largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you're looking for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with a lighter touch, the Glory Red is a fantastic option. Its design promises an effortless journey from keypress to bottom out, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more gentle feel and potentially quieter environment—ideal for casual typing, long writing sessions, or office settings where silence is preferred. On the other hand, if you prioritize responsiveness and a tactile feedback experience, the TTC Gold Silver may be your best bet. Known for its quick actuation and impressive sound profile, this switch is particularly suited for fast-paced activities like gaming or coding, where rapid key presses are crucial. The Gold Silver's polished and silky feel can enhance your typing efficiency, making each keystroke feel satisfying while delivering a deeper sound signature. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value a smoother, quieter experience with the Glory Red or the swift, decisive feedback offered by the Gold Silver—both choices have their merits tailored to different preferences and scenarios.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more