TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices often surface: the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Keygeek Keylin. The TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate subtle feedback during their typing experience. With its gentle tactile bump and low-pitched sound profile, it allows users to immerse themselves in their work without distractions, making it perfect for environments where quiet operation is a priority. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin, known for its linear action, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, appealing to those who favor a fluid typing experience devoid of tactile interruptions. Its premium acoustics enhance the overall experience, delivering satisfying sound with each press. While the Gold Brown Pro caters to those seeking nuanced tactile feedback, the Keylin provides a seamless and whisper-quiet experience for uninterrupted flow. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Keygeek Keylin, it becomes evident that they utilize different materials for their top housings: the Gold Brown Pro features polycarbonate, while the Keylin employs nylon. Polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This characteristic allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the aesthetics of backlit keyboards. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Keylin generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This leads to a more subdued auditory experience that can suit users who prefer a less bright and more mellow keystroke. Therefore, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro may deliver a bright, crisp typing experience, the Keylin offers a warmer, deeper sensation.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, both constructed from nylon. This material choice leads to a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's ability to absorb sound means that the bottom-out feel will be plush and round, regardless of the differing top housing materials. Consequently, users can expect a similar tactile feedback and sound when they press the key down, although the sound produced when releasing the key may vary greatly according to the top housing's material characteristics. Thus, the bottom housing will harmonize nicely within both switches, offering an enjoyable sensation upon keystrokes.
The variance in top housing materials presents a notable contrast in how each switch delivers its overall sound profile. For those who appreciate the clarity and vibrancy of a polycarbonate top housing, the Gold Brown Pro will stand out as an ideal choice. Conversely, users who lean towards a darker and more resonant typing sound may find the Keylin's nylon top housing more appealing. Ultimately, while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which ensures a consistent bottom-out experience, the difference in top housings significantly influences the sound and feel of typing. Therefore, users will have a clear distinction in using these switches based on their preferences for brightness versus depth in sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch to the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is heavier than the Keylin's actuation force of 38 grams. This difference suggests that the Gold Brown Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer push feel. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect with the Keylin switch, which has a bottom out force of 48 grams. As the Keylin switch is lighter in actuation force and has a defined bottom out force, it would likely enhance comfort for long typing sessions or extended gaming. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter and more responsive switch, the Keylin is the better choice, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a heavier actuation, ideal for users who favor a sturdier key feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, we find that the Gold Brown Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Keylin measures 3.6 mm. This means that the Keylin offers a shorter travel distance, which may be more appealing to gamers seeking rapid response times. Conversely, the Gold Brown Pro provides a slightly longer travel distance, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. While shorter travel distances can feel more abrupt, offering quicker actuation, the longer distance of the Gold Brown Pro allows for a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and key feel.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a sound profile that can be characterized as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral. Users can expect a deep, rich tone with every keystroke, akin to a soft thud or knock, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly intrusive. This muted sound signature makes it ideal for both home and professional environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, details regarding the sound profile of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch are unknown, which leaves this aspect open to speculation. However, one can anticipate that the linear design typically yields a smoother sound with less acoustic feedback than tactile switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is designed to offer a polished and silky typing experience, notable for its smooth travel and reduced friction. This switch embodies a mild and subtle tactile feedback, allowing typists to enjoy comfortable keypresses without harsh resistance or overwhelming sensations. The stepped nature of its tactile response lends a slight segmentation to the keystrokes, making it approachable and user-friendly for all typing styles. The feel characteristics of the Keylin switch are not specified, leaving its tactile or smoothness properties uncertain. One might speculate that as a linear switch, the Keylin could focus on delivering exceptional smoothness, potentially catering to users who prioritize a seamless keystroke.
In summary, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch provides a nuanced sound and a refined feel suitable for both silent and immersive typing experiences, the characteristics of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch remain more ambiguous. The Gold Brown Pro is particularly advantageous for those who desire a soft, thocky sound complemented by its slick and mild keypress feel. Without specific details about the Keylin, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison, but it would likely appeal to enthusiasts seeking an entirely smooth linear experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages that can cater to various preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and environment. If you appreciate a typing experience that is more subdued and allows for prolonged focus without distractions, the Gold Brown Pro is an excellent choice. Its gentle tactile feel paired with a whisper-quiet sound profile makes it ideal for shared workspaces or environments where noise reduction is essential. This switch is suited for typists who prefer subtle feedback, allowing you to remain immersed in your tasks without the jarring sensation of overt tactile bumps. On the other hand, if you're seeking a responsive and smooth typing experience with a satisfying acoustics, the Keylin switch may be your preferred option. Its light actuation force and exceptional smoothness cater to those who prioritize a fluid typing experience and enjoy the thrill of uninterrupted keystrokes. In essence, consider the context in which you'll be typing: the Gold Brown Pro for a refined, tranquil experience, and the Keylin if you favor ease of use and a more dynamic feel in your mechanical keyboard.
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