Gateron Glory Yellow vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options are the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, each appealing to distinct typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow, categorized as a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying travel distance, making it an ideal choice for gamers and fast typists who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a tactile experience with its subtle yet discernible bump, providing feedback without overwhelming the user. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate nuance in their typing, allowing for a more immersive engagement with their work while maintaining a quiet sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one values the smoothness and speed of a linear switch or the gentle feedback and understated nature of a tactile 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches, a stark contrast is evident in their top housings. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer characteristics. This material absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, enhancing clarity and resonance, thus creating a notable difference in auditory feedback. We see here that the materials chosen can lead to distinct auditory experiences, which may cater to different user preferences when it comes to the tactile and acoustic feedback of the switches.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, leading to a shared characteristic of sound absorption. Both switches will therefore exhibit a similar deep and full sound when bottoming out due to the nylon’s inherent qualities. The impact of nylon in the bottom housing is especially pronounced; it ensures that the actuation and bottom-out sound remain consistently deeper and richer across both switches. This means that, despite the differences in the top housing materials, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when the switches are fully pressed down, reinforcing that nylon delivers a certain acoustic quality regardless of its position in the housing.
In summary, the juxtaposition of nylon and polycarbonate top housings in these switches leads to differing sound profiles: rounded and muted for the Glory Yellow versus sharp and resonant for the Gold Brown Pro. However, the uniformity of nylon used in the bottom housing creates a consistent auditory experience when the switches bottom out, allowing for a deeper sound that is similar across both models. This synthesis of materials demonstrates how the combined effects of distinct and similar materials can shape the overall tactile and acoustic characteristics of keyboard switches, providing users with varied yet satisfying typing experiences depending on their specific preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, we see that the Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Gold Brown Pro requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Glory Yellow may be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Gold Brown Pro could be ideal for users looking to type with less effort over extended periods, potentially making it more comfortable for long work sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, which means no direct comparison can be made in that regard. However, based on their actuation forces, the Glory Yellow is the heavier switch, while the Gold Brown Pro is the lighter option. Choosing between them will ultimately come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and effort.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow offers a more substantial feel when pressed, making it potentially more satisfying for those who prefer a deeper travel experience. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel when typing or gaming. While both switches cater to different preferences, the choice ultimately depends on whether one values a more pronounced keypress or a faster actuation response. Thus, if you prioritize depth in your keystrokes, the Glory Yellow would be the better option, while those who prefer a responsive switch may gravitate towards the Gold Brown Pro.
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 Pro 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 Brown Pro 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 Gateron Glory Yellow switch has not been defined in the provided information, leaving its auditory characteristics unknown. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is recognized for its thocky, low-pitched sound profile, which provides a deep, rich auditory experience with each keystroke. This combination of a soft thud and a mellow tone makes it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued sound while typing, ensuring that the actuation remains pleasant without being overly intrusive. The switch's neutral sound profile further complements its versatility, making it suitable for both home and office environments.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow’s attributes are similarly unspecified, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in this regard. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is characterized by its polished, silky smoothness, which enhances the typing experience by minimizing friction and providing refined key travel. The mild and subtle feedback of this switch means that it offers a gentle resistance, making it approachable for users at various skill levels. Additionally, the stepped tactile feature ensures that typists can engage with a nuanced and responsive feel without overwhelming sensations, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without discomfort.
Taking into account all the available information, the Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches present distinct qualities in their sound and feel. While the Glory Yellow's details remain a mystery, the Gold Brown Pro stands out with its pleasing auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to users who appreciate a refined, understated typing experience. For individuals seeking a smooth and quiet input, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a clear advantage. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preferences, especially since the Glory Yellow's traits are yet to be explored.
Conclusion
In closing, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a fluid typing experience with consistently smooth keystrokes and nothing to interrupt your rhythm, the Gateron Glory Yellow could be your ideal choice, particularly if you prefer a switch that allows for unfettered speed and minimal actuation resistance. This makes it well-suited for fast-paced gaming or typing sessions where quick key presses are crucial. Conversely, if you appreciate a bit of tactile feedback that subtly enhances your typing without being intrusive, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is likely to resonate with you. Its gentle tactile bump and quieter sound profile cater to a more immersive typing experience, perfect for office environments or shared spaces where you don’t want to disturb those around you. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you value feedback and sound in your typing journey: go for the Glory Yellow for smoothness and speed, or opt for the Gold Brown Pro for a balanced tactile experience that keeps you connected to your keystrokes.
Mentioned in this article
