TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, individuals must consider their preferences for typing feedback and sound. The Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who value subtle tactile feedback, with a gentle bump that allows for an immersive typing experience without loud distractions. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie offers a textured typing experience with substantial heft, blending tradition with modern innovation. While the Gold Brown Pro is polished, thocky, low-pitched, and subtle, the Nixie is textured, thocky, and low-pitched. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to determine the best switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry Nixie, it is clear that both switches have nylon bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon material. However, since the Gold Brown Pro has a polycarbonate top housing, it will create sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles compared to the Nixie which also uses nylon for its top housing. The Gold Brown Pro's top housing will be more resonant and clear, showcasing a different sound experience compared to the Nixie.
When examining the sound profiles of switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note how the qualities of each material impact the overall typing experience. With the Gold Brown Pro's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a unique typing sensation where the top housing influences the sound when keys are released, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie's consistent use of nylon for both top and bottom housing will provide a more consistent deep and full sound profile throughout typing.
Overall, the choice between the Gold Brown Pro and the Cherry Nixie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials creates a sharper and crisper sound profile with a distinctive typing feel. In contrast, the Nixie's consistent use of nylon for both top and bottom housing offers a more uniform deep and full sound profile. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the materials used in their housing, showcasing the diversity in sound profiles that can be achieved through different housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro is unknown while the Nixie has a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gold Brown Pro more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Nixie with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the varied preferences of keyboard users.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its faster response time, while those who prefer a more pronounced keypress may opt for the Cherry Nixie with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Cherry Nixie switches are described as thocky and low-pitched, providing a deep and rich auditory experience with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Gold Brown Pro switch offers a neutral sound profile, perfect for any typing environment, while the Nixie switch leans toward a more substantial and classic typing sound. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, and subtle typing experience, offering smooth key travel and a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, potentially providing users with a different tactile feedback due to noticeable friction when pressed. Both switches offer unique typing feels that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Brown Pro leaning towards a refined and smooth experience while the Nixie offers a more traditional and textured sensation.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Cherry Nixie switches each bring their own strengths to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a subtle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, ideal for those who value understated typing experiences. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is revered for its textured typing feel and classic heft, blending tradition with modern innovations. Ultimately, whether you prefer the nuanced feedback of the Gold Brown Pro or the textured sensation of the Nixie, both switches offer quality performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a subtle tactile bump with a quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing feel with a classic textured experience, the Nixie switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for keypress feedback and sound.
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