TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences. The Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle tactile experience with a gentle bump and subdued sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Red provides a smooth and effortless typing experience with a lower actuation force, perfect for those with a lighter typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Red, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a unique material for the top housing, with the Gold Brown Pro using polycarbonate and the Ink Red using a proprietary INK blend. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red offers a high-pitched and clacky sound. However, both materials contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we see another point of comparison between the Gold Brown Pro and the Ink Red. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Ink Red features the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile as seen in the top housing. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by combining different materials in the top and bottom housings to create a unique feel and sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Red differ in some aspects, they both prioritize delivering a satisfying typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing work together to create a sharp and clear sound profile, while the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing offer a high-pitched and clacky sound. Regardless of the differences in materials, both switches are designed to provide users with a unique and enjoyable typing experience that is tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light to the touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown Pro has an unknown value while the Ink Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a firmer typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Gateron Ink Red to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Red being slightly closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 offers a thocky and low-pitched experience, creating a deep and rich sound profile that is subtle and neutral, perfect for a quiet and immersive typing session. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red provides a neutral sound profile with a chirpy twist, adding a unique squeak to the typing experience that sets it apart. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches offer varying levels of sound that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Ink Red switches provide a smooth and polished typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a refined and gentle typing feel with a subtle tactile bump that is suitable for shared spaces. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Red is silky, mild, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall within the middle-ground zone in terms of feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most users.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Ink Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quiet and immersive typing session. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red offers a smooth and polished typing feel with a neutral sound profile and a hint of chirpiness, ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches provide a unique typing experience that ensures comfort and satisfaction for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth typing experience with a lower actuation force and a slightly clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red is the switch to go for. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a nuanced tactile feel and subdued sound (Gold Brown Pro) or a lighter typing style with a smooth and satisfying keystroke (Ink Red). Make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience and productivity the most.
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