TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference in tactile feedback and sound. The TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, is designed for those who appreciate a gentle, nuanced feedback during typing. With its subtle tactile bump and low-pitched sound profile, it promotes an immersive typing experience without overwhelming auditory distractions. This makes it an excellent choice for focused work environments where concentration is key. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switch offers a linear experience characterized by an ultra-light 40g actuation force, allowing for a smooth and effortless typing experience, perfect for prolonged use. If you lean towards a switch that provides a seamless, uninterrupted key press without tactile feedback, the Grape Orange is undeniably appealing. 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
40g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown Pro and Huano Grape Orange switches share significant similarities in their housing materials, particularly the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which enhances the overall sound profile by producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper audio experience. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer properties, allowing for clearer resonance. Their translucent design makes them particularly advantageous for users who aim to incorporate RGB lighting, as the light can effectively showcase the aesthetics of both switches in a visually appealing manner. Therefore, regardless of the brand, one can expect an enhanced lighting experience and a bright sound signature from both switch types.
In contrast to their top housings, the bottom housings of both the Gold Brown Pro and Grape Orange utilize nylon, which alters the sound profile significantly. Nylon is recognized for its softer, more sound-absorbent properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. This means that while the top housings provide clarity and brightness, the nylon bottom housings contribute a heavier, more resonant sound quality that is often described as duller and rounder. Consequently, when using either switch, the typing experience will include both the sharpness of polycarbonate from above and the warmth of nylon below, offering a balanced auditory profile that appeals to different preferences in sound.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials in the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Huano Grape Orange switches lends to an excellent harmonization of sound qualities. The polycarbonate top enhances brightness and clarity while the nylon bottom adds warmth and depth to the typing experience. Since both switches utilize the same materials, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound dynamics and aesthetic appeal, while the tactile experience may vary slightly depending on individual preferences for response and feel. Regardless of choice, the unique interplay between these materials guarantees a satisfactory performance for typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, we observe some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Huano Grape Orange requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Grape Orange is easier to activate, making it potentially better for extended typing sessions, as it requires less effort per keystroke. However, while the bottom out force for the Grape Orange is specified as 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is not provided. Therefore, we cannot directly compare their bottom out forces. Nonetheless, the Grape Orange, being the lighter switch overall with lower actuation force, might appeal to users looking for comfort during long periods of use, while those who enjoy a firmer feel might lean towards the TTC Gold Brown Pro despite its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the Gold Brown Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Grape Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that could appeal to gamers seeking quick response times. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro, with its longer 3.8 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial depth that some users may prefer, as it feels less abrupt when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: those who enjoy quicker actuation might lean towards the Grape Orange, while those who favor a more pronounced keystroke may opt for the Gold Brown Pro.
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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a nuanced profile that leans towards a thocky, low-pitched sound. This creates a deep, rich auditory feedback that provides the user with a satisfying yet subtle keypress experience. It operates at a level that remains neutral and mellows down the noise into a background presence, making it suitable for both home and work environments. On the other hand, information on the sound characteristics of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly. However, given its linear nature, one could generally expect it to produce a quieter sound profile due to the absence of tactile bumps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch excels in delivering a polished, silky, and subtle typing experience. This smoothness reduces friction and enhances key travel, making it suitable for users who appreciate a mild tactile response that allows for comfortable longer typing sessions. The Gold Brown Pro's stepped tactile feedback allows for a gentle cue without being overbearing, effectively catering to typists who want a nuanced but not overwhelming experience. Conversely, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Huano Grape Orange, but its linear design typically suggests a more straightforward keypress without tactile feedback, favoring fluid movement over the tactile nuances present in the Gold Brown Pro.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a rich auditory and smooth tactile experience, making it ideal for users who seek subtlety and refinement in their typing. Its well-defined sound profile and gentle tactile feedback allow for immersive use without distraction. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange's sound and feel characteristics remain unknown; however, it is known for its ultra-light actuation force, making it potentially more suited for those prioritizing effortless keystrokes. While they cater to different preferences, users can find unique benefits in both switches, ensuring that whether the preference is for tactile feedback or linear smoothness, there’s something available for every typist's needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using them. If you prefer a typing experience that is both subtle and refined, the Gold Brown Pro is ideal. Its gentle tactile bump and low sound profile allow for a focused atmosphere, making it perfect for office settings or quiet spaces where concentration is key. This switch is also excellent for typists who appreciate a silky and polished feel, enabling longer sessions of comfortable typing without distraction. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter, more effortless typing experience that doesn’t require much force, the Grape Orange is your go-to option. Its lightweight actuation and smooth linear feel cater to those who type for extended periods and want to minimize fatigue. Additionally, the Grape Orange is suitable for gamers looking for quick actuation and a fast response time. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and subtlety or prefer a light, linear experience for speed and convenience.
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