TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Orange offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactile bump, delivering subtle feedback that helps typists maintain immersion in their tasks without being overly intrusive. Its low-pitched sound profile adds to a serene typing environment, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a whisper-quiet experience while still enjoying the nuances of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, is designed for smooth key presses without any tactile bump. This makes it a fantastic option for gamers or those who prefer a more fluid typing experience, as the absence of tactile feedback allows for rapid keystrokes and a more seamless feel. Both switches are engineered for high performance and cater to different typing styles; the Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a more nuanced, low-key tactile experience, whereas the MX Orange offers a straightforward, unimpeded keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
The TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry MX Orange switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of the material. This choice of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also allows for effective RGB lighting effects, as its translucency ensures that the illumination shines through effectively. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch is topped with a nylon housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relative softness of nylon absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a rounder acoustic signature. Thus, while the Gold Brown Pro emphasizes clarity and brightness in sound, the Cherry MX Orange provides a more subdued and warmth-oriented auditory experience.
When we examine the bottom housings of both switches, we see a convergence in material choice—it’s made of nylon for both models. This similarity means that the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when bottoming out are comparably deep and full across both switches. The nylon material in both instances absorbs sound, which creates a more muted acoustic quality when the key is pressed. As a result, the typing experience is expected to feel plush and less jarring, allowing users to enjoy a consistent tactile feedback whether they are using the Gold Brown Pro or the Cherry MX Orange.
Ultimately, while the top housing materials differ between the two switches, both share a commonality with their nylon bottom housings, making them similar in terms of sound depth when keys are pressed down. The differing top housings clearly shape the release sounds and overall auditory profile, contributing to the distinct experiences provided by each switch. Therefore, users who appreciate the sharper, more vibrant keystrokes of the Gold Brown Pro can still enjoy the deep and rounded feedback that both models deliver during key presses, whether they prioritize the clarity of polycarbonate or the muted warmth of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown Pro requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Orange necessitates a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. As for bottom out forces, both switches have this information unavailable, so we cannot draw a direct comparison in that regard. However, the difference in actuation forces indicates that typists and gamers who prefer a more responsive and lighter touch may gravitate toward the TTC Gold Brown Pro, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, those who favor a more robust tactile experience and are comfortable with the increased effort required might find the Cherry MX Orange to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding weight and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Gold Brown Pro measuring 3.8 mm compared to the 4 mm of the MX Orange. This makes the TTC Gold Brown Pro the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which can be particularly advantageous for gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial tactile experience for users who appreciate a deeper key press. While both switches are designed to meet distinct preferences, the difference in travel distance suggests a divergence in user experience: the Gold Brown Pro caters to those seeking speed, while the MX Orange offers a more traditional and satisfying depth.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Cherry MX Orange switches, the Gold Brown Pro stands out with its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound, offering a deep, satisfying thud that resembles a soft knock when the key is pressed and released. This sound is characterized by its bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for both home and office environments, as it strikes a balance that allows for focused typing without being overly distracting. In contrast, there isn't specific information provided regarding the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange; thus, any assumptions about its sound qualities must remain unknown. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro excels with its polished and silky smoothness, lending itself to a refined typing experience thanks to reduced friction and smooth key travel. The tactile feedback is gentle and mild, appealing to those who prefer a subtle typing experience without overwhelming sensation. The stepped design ensures that the tactile bump feels more nuanced rather than pronounced, making it approachable for all users. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the MX Orange switch, which leaves an unanswered element in terms of how its tactile characteristics compare.
All things considered, the TTC Gold Brown Pro caters to typists who appreciate a refined, quiet, and subtly tactile experience, making it ideal for environments where focus is paramount. While the Cherry MX Orange switch offers its own enhancements from prior iterations, much remains unknown about its specific qualities in sound and feel. For users seeking similar results in terms of sound and smoothness, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would provide a very satisfying option, but the performance of the MX Orange can only be determined with further comparative analysis. Ultimately, the TTC Gold Brown Pro stands out as a compelling choice for those who value a balanced typing experience in quieter settings.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a typing experience that offers subtle feedback with a silky-smooth feel, then the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be an excellent choice. Its gentle tactile bump allows for a degree of immersion without overwhelming you with noise or pronounced resistance, making it perfect for quiet environments or lengthy typing sessions. This switch is also well-suited for users who may share their workspace, as its low sound profile ensures minimal disruption. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that excels in smoothness without tactile bumps or resistance, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch could be ideal for you. While not as explicitly detailed in tactile feedback, it offers a satisfying typing experience likely reminiscent of the original design, which is appealing to those who appreciate a straightforward linear action. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value tactile feedback for precision in your keystrokes or prefer a smoother, unbroken keystroke for fast-paced typing.
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