Gateron Glory Yellow vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown present two distinct options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Glory Yellow is designed as a linear switch, renowned for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, making it an excellent choice for gamers or typists who appreciate a streamlined, uninterrupted experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown is a tactile switch that offers a balanced feel, featuring a slight bump to provide feedback without being overly aggressive, appealing to both casual users and avid typists who enjoy a bit of tactile engagement in their keystrokes. While the Glory Yellow boasts a heavier action that suits those who prefer an assertive typing experience, the Gold Brown’s milder feel and softer sound profile offer a more nuanced typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Gold Brown switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which fundamentally affect their sound profiles. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing clarity and resonance. Therefore, keying on the Gold Brown may elicit a more pronounced "click" or "snap" upon release, compared to the more muted tones of the Glory Yellow.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a level of consistency in sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, as this material retains the same acoustic qualities regardless of the top housing. As a result, when typing on either switch, the feel and sound produced during the bottoming out of the keys will be similar due to the shared nylon material. This shared characteristic means that while the overall sound aesthetics differ when considering the top housing, the bottom-out experience remains consistent across both models.
In summary, the material difference in the top housings of the Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Gold Brown leads to distinct sound profiles, with the Glory Yellow offering a deeper, fuller resonance, while the Gold Brown provides a sharper and crisper auditory effect. However, since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a similar feel during the actuation of keystrokes. This synergy between the materials ensures that even if one switch boasts a more pronounced sound during release, the fundamental bottoming-out experience will feel noticeably alike, making both switches appealing options for different auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option between the two, which could be preferable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some typists may prefer for feedback during use. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unavailable, while the Gold Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Gold Brown provides a firmer resistance when fully pressed, which can enhance the typing experience for those who favor a stronger push feel. Overall, if you value a lighter switch for comfort and less effort, the Gateron Glory Yellow would be the choice, while the TTC Gold Brown may appeal to those who appreciate a stronger tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on either switch, you'll experience the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a consistent feel during typing, allowing for similar tactile feedback under your fingers regardless of which switch you choose. Consequently, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow switch presents a smooth auditory profile that contributes to an enjoyable typing experience; however, specific details on its sound aren't fully articulated. The TTC Gold Brown, on the other hand, offers a rounded and relatively soft sound profile that is classified as neutral. This means it strikes a balance that makes it versatile for various environments, whether for casual typing or professional use. The Gold Brown's moderate sound levels make it suitable for those who desire a quieter experience without entirely sacrificing auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Glory Yellow switch stands out for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions, though specifics on its texture and tactility aren't provided. The TTC Gold Brown, in contrast, is characterized by a mild and gentle typing sensation, accompanied by an accented tactile bump that enhances feedback without being overly pronounced. This switch's buttery and polished attributes offer a seamless typing experience, reducing friction and providing a smooth travel surface, making it a refined choice for users seeking a more tactile engagement.
In summary, while the Gateron Glory Yellow prioritizes a smooth keystroke experience, the TTC Gold Brown aims for a balanced blend of tactile feedback and gentle sound. Both switches cater to different preferences in the typing experience, yet they can ultimately deliver enjoyable results for users depending on what they prioritize: the smoothness of the Glory Yellow or the tactility and balance of the Gold Brown. Regardless of the choice, both options can adapt to meet varying typing needs, making them suitable for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch should ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth and fluid keystroke that glides effortlessly without a tactile bump, the Glory Yellow is an excellent choice. Its lighter feel and enjoyable travel distance make it ideal for fast typists and gamers who favor rapid key presses and a minimalist sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a satisfying tactile bump that provides a moderate resistance while offering a balanced experience, the TTC Gold Brown will serve you well. Its mild actuation force and subtle sound characteristics make it a versatile option for both typing and gaming, suitable for extended use in a variety of environments. In essence, if you seek a seamless, buttery experience, opt for the Glory Yellow; but if you want a more traditional tactile feel that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, go for the Gold Brown.
Mentioned in this article
