TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh BCP offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch, designed for those who appreciate subtle, nuanced feedback in their typing. Its gentle tactile bump is complemented by a low-pitched, silky sound profile, allowing typists to maintain focus without overt distractions. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals in quieter environments or those who prefer an understated tactile experience. In contrast, the Kailh BCP is a linear switch that redefines the beloved Black Cherry Pie feel with custom-molded components, delivering a creamy, elastic touch. The experience is characterized by its bouncy sensation and a poppy, clacky sound, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback while typing. Choosing between these two switches often comes down to your typing style and environment; while the Gold Brown Pro promotes a serene, immersive atmosphere, the BCP invites an engaging and lively experience. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh BCP switches illuminate their distinct auditory signatures and tactile responses, which can significantly influence a user's typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which is well-regarded for its clarity and crisp sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, making it a popular choice for users who appreciate a more resonant auditory feedback during keystrokes. This translucency also enhances the aesthetic aspect, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, as the illuminated keycaps can project light more effectively through a polycarbonate housing.
In contrast, the Kailh BCP utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a markedly different sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer texture, which absorbs more sound, leading to a fuller and deeper acoustic experience. This characteristic may appeal to users who prefer a rounder, less aggressive auditory cue while typing, allowing for a more muted yet satisfying keystroke feel. The aesthetic differences are subtler in this case, as nylon is generally more opaque than polycarbonate, potentially affecting the way RGB lighting interacts with the housing and overall light transmission.
Interestingly, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which evokes similar auditory qualities due to the inherent sound absorption traits of nylon. This commonality suggests that regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, both switches will elicit a deeper and more rounded sound based on their shared bottom housing. When typing, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the unique attributes of the top housings create divergent auditory experiences during key release. As such, users may achieve satisfying results with either switch, depending on their preferences for the type of auditory feedback they desire during typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Kailh BCP has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some typists may find preferable for a more tactile experience. While the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unknown, the BCP has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. This means that while both switches can provide distinct experiences, the TTC Gold Brown Pro appeals to those looking for lighter keystrokes, while the Kailh BCP caters to users who appreciate a firmer response when bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, the former features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the latter has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you are looking for a switch with a more substantial feel when pressed down, the Gold Brown Pro's 3.8 mm could provide a heartier depth that some users may prefer. On the other hand, those who appreciate a quicker, snappier response will find the Kailh BCP's 3.5 mm travel distance more appealing, as it aligns with the trend toward shorter distances favored by gamers for enhanced speed. Thus, the Gold Brown Pro offers a longer travel distance, making it suitable for users who prefer a more robust typing experience, whereas the Kailh BCP, with its shorter distance, caters to individuals seeking faster reaction times.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. It provides a deep, rich auditory feedback that creates a soft "knock" when pressed, akin to a gentle thud rather than a sharp click. This allows typists to immerse themselves in their work without the distraction of loud noises. Conversely, the Kailh BCP linear switch's sound profile is less documented, leaving uncertainty about its specific auditory characteristics. Hence, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro aims for a subdued acoustic signature suitable for quiet environments, the BCP's sound remains an open question, implying a potentially different auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro excels with a polished, silky, and subtle typing experience. It offers a mild tactile feedback with a gentle resistance, making typing smooth and pleasant, which is ideal for extended use. The stepped tactile nature contributes to an overall refined experience, balancing feedback without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP's tactile qualities are unknown, presenting a gap in information regarding its feel. Therefore, while the Gold Brown Pro ensures a nuanced and smooth interaction, the tactile response of the BCP remains to be explored.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is designed for those who appreciate a subtle and refined typing experience, highlighted by its softly pronounced tactile bump and quiet operation. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch presents an element of uncertainty, particularly in its sound and feel characteristics. Those who value a more immersive and distraction-minimized typing environment may find the Gold Brown Pro more appealing, while the BCP's attributes are yet to be fully defined. Thus, potential users would benefit from trying both to determine their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and intended usage scenario. If you're searching for a switch that provides subtle and refined feedback, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is your go-to option. Its mild tactile bump and low sound profile make it ideal for quiet environments, like an office or shared workspace, where minimal distraction is key. It offers a polished, silky feel, allowing you to type comfortably for extended periods without feeling overwhelmed by each keystroke. On the other hand, if you favor a lively and engaging typing experience, the Kailh BCP linear switch is designed for you. With its medium-heavy actuation force and an elastic, bouncy sensation, it delivers a poppy sound that can make typing feel more dynamic and enjoyable, perfect for gaming or when you want to add a bit of flair to your setup. Thus, your choice should align with whether you prioritize tranquility and subtlety or seek an expressive and tactile typing experience.
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