Gateron Glory Yellow vs. TTC Gold Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Red are two prominent options in the linear switch category that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Glory Yellow switch is celebrated for its heavier feel, providing a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, making it a fantastic choice for typists who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback during their typing sessions. Conversely, the TTC Gold Red switches are favored for their buttery smooth action and light to medium resistance, offering a delightful typing experience that pairs well with a snappy yet subtle sound profile. While the Gold Red may appeal more to those looking for a polished and understated auditory experience, the Glory Yellow's robust character might be more enticing for users who enjoy a firmer touch. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

TTC Gold Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Red switches, it is evident that they utilize different materials for their top housings, which contribute distinct sound profiles to the typing experience. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing, known for its softer and more absorbent characteristics. This material creates a deeper, fuller sound that dampens vibrations, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and consequently produces a sharper, crisper sound profile. The crystal-clear qualities of polycarbonate not only enhance the auditory feedback but also make it a more visually appealing option for setups that include RGB lighting, allowing light to diffuse and shine through the housing effectively.

Interestingly, when analyzing the bottom housings of both switches, we find that they share the same material: nylon. This shared component influences the sound profile in a similar manner for both switches, as nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper resonance. Consequently, when typing on either switch, users will experience a more muted bottom-out sound, largely due to the nylon bottom housing. This aspect highlights that while the top housings differ significantly, both switches maintain a consistent sound characteristic at the bottom because they utilize identical materials.

In terms of overall performance, the differences in top housing between the Glory Yellow and Gold Red ultimately lead to varied tactile and auditory experiences. The nylon top housing of the Glory Yellow produces a more subdued sound, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Gold Red, with its polycarbonate top housing, suits those who enjoy a brighter, more resonant feedback. Nevertheless, since both switches share a nylon bottom housing, you can expect a degree of similarity in the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing how the design of switch housings can refine but not completely alter the tactile experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, we see a difference in their actuation forces but a similarity in their overall feel. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the TTC Gold Red, which features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This difference suggests that users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions might favor the Gold Red switch, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Glory Yellow. Both switches lack a specific bottom out force measurement for the Glory Yellow, but the Gold Red's known bottom out force of 50 grams indicates it provides a tactile feedback at the end of its travel. Ultimately, while the Gold Red offers a lighter actuation force, both switches cater to different preferences regarding typing experience, with the Gold Red allowing for quicker, less strenuous keystrokes.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equivalent in terms of travel distance. This means that when you press down on either switch, you'll experience the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom, resulting in a similar feel and responsiveness. Consequently, users can expect a consistent keypress experience between the two, allowing for the same level of performance whether they choose one switch over the other.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Glory Yellow switch isn’t specified, but the TTC Gold Red switches are characterized by a thocky, low-pitched sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback. This switch generates a deep, rich thud when pressed, adding a modest layer of personality to your typing experience without overwhelming your auditory senses. The Gold Red's neutral sound profile also makes it versatile for various environments, ensuring that it won't disturb those around you, unlike some switches that generate more noise.

When it comes to feel, the Glory Yellow switch is associated with a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, although details on its specific characteristics are not provided. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red offers a mild, silky experience that ensures a gentle typing sensation. Its subtle resistance caters well to both beginners and experienced typists, creating an approachable feel. This polished switch enhances smoothness and minimizes friction during key presses, ideal for long typing sessions and general use.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Glory Yellow is noted for its enjoyable typing experience, specific details about its sound and feel remain unspecified. The TTC Gold Red switches, however, shine in both their thocky sound profile and their mild, polished feel, making them suitable for a wide audience. If you're drawn to a smoother typing experience that also provides some auditory satisfaction, both switches can deliver similar pleasures to some extent, though the Gold Red's sound and feel are more clearly defined, potentially making them a safer choice for first-time mechanical keyboard users.

Conclusion

To sum up, selecting between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Gold Red linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a heavier resistance with a smooth and enjoyable keystroke, the Glory Yellow might be your ideal choice. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate a balance in travel distance and a satisfying typing experience, especially if you prioritize a more pronounced and firm feel during use. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, buttery smooth typing experience that is versatile enough for both work and gaming, the Gold Red is an excellent option. Its lighter actuation force and thocky, low-pitched sound profile make it a great fit for those who want an approachable switch without drawing too much attention in quieter environments. Ultimately, think about whether you lean towards a heavier, more tactile experience or a softer, more subtle feel, and make your choice accordingly to enjoy an optimal keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Red Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more