TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and TTC Gold Red offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch designed for those who appreciate subtle feedback while typing. Its gentle tactile bump provides a background presence, allowing for immersive typing sessions with minimal distraction. In contrast, the Gold Red linear switch offers a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, accompanied by a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being too loud. While the Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who value understated tactility, the Gold Red appeals to users seeking a buttery smooth typing feel. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the TTC Gold Red, it's evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound, users can expect a similar experience from both the Gold Brown Pro and Gold Red due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown Pro and Gold Red feature a nylon construction. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon results in a duller and rounder sound, which contributes to a unique typing experience. Despite their differences in appearance, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown Pro and Gold Red will provide users with a similar tactile feel and sound feedback when typing on these switches.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound emitted when releasing a key. This division of characteristics between the top and bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile of switches like the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the TTC Gold Red.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Gold Red's 43 grams. However, the Gold Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown. This means that the Gold Red linear switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro may appeal to users who prefer a slightly higher actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Gold Brown Pro tactile switch. The Gold Red linear switch falls within the more traditional travel distance range, while the Gold Brown Pro tactile switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro tactile switch for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Gold Red linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Gold Red switches are classified as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that users can expect a mellow, bass-heavy tone that is not overly loud or distracting, making both switches suitable for various environments and preferences. The choice of keyboard and keycaps will also play a role in the final sound produced, so users can further customize their auditory experience based on these factors.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a smooth, refined typing experience with gentle resistance and a two-stage tactile response. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing users with a gentle typing feel that is smooth, approachable, and suitable for shared spaces. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience without excessive noise or resistance, catering to users who value a refined and effortless keystroke.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a sophisticated and understated typing experience. Whether you prefer a subtle tactile bump or a buttery smooth linear feel, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience with minimal distraction. Users can choose between the Gold Brown Pro for a nuanced and polished tactile experience or the Gold Red for a snappy and smooth linear feel, depending on their personal preferences and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and versatility for users looking to enhance their typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider the type of feedback you prefer. If you value a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with minimal distraction and a quieter typing sound, the Gold Brown Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard, the Gold Red would be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile will guide you towards the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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