TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a tactile mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Brown. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who prefer a subtle and nuanced typing experience, with a gentle tactile bump that provides just enough feedback without being overwhelming. Its quiet sound profile makes it perfect for staying focused without distractions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is known for its light typing experience and gentle tactility, offering a more textured feel compared to the Gold Brown Pro. 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Brown, we see that the Gold Brown Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the MX Brown uses a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for those looking for a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a more muted and rounded typing experience. Both materials have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel.
When it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Gold Brown Pro and the MX Brown utilize a nylon material. The nylon bottom housing of these switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and creating a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing may not have as much of an impact on the overall typing experience as the top housing, the nylon material used in both switches ensures a consistent and satisfying sound profile regardless of which switch you choose.
Ultimately, whether you opt for the TTC Gold Brown Pro or the Cherry MX Brown, you can expect a high-quality typing experience thanks to the carefully selected housing materials used in each switch. While the Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, the MX Brown utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings for a more consistent typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and feels that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for all users.
Weight
The actuation force of both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown switch is 55 grams, making it heavier compared to the Gold Brown Pro switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the switches as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, suitable for work or gaming. Others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference 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 Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. The Gold Brown Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the Cherry MX Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience without being intrusive. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound, similarly offering a quieter typing experience with a focus on depth and richness. Both switches aim to keep the typing noise to a minimum, allowing for a more discreet and immersive typing session.
Moving on to the feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is mentioned as having a textured feel, potentially introducing a bit of friction during key presses. While the Gold Brown Pro focuses on a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, the MX Brown offers a more conventional typing experience with a slight hint of texture for added tactility.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Brown switches both target users who prefer a lighter touch and a more understated typing experience. While the Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a polished and subdued tactile feedback with a thocky sound profile, the MX Brown offers a more textured feel with a bassy sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a pleasant and relatively quiet typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a subtle, nuanced feedback with a quiet typing sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. Its gentle tactile bump and subdued noise level allow for an immersive typing experience without distractions. On the other hand, if you prefer a light typing experience with gentle tactility and a bass-heavy sound profile, the Cherry MX Brown switch is the better option for you. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so consider your typing preferences and environment before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on what feels right for your typing style.
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