TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis are two popular choices, both offering a tactile typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro is renowned for its subtle and nuanced feedback, perfect for those who prefer a more understated tactile sensation while typing. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis switches are known for their effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, making it ideal for minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile bump, but with different characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this feature, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both the Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer unique sound profiles due to their use of polycarbonate in the top housing. This material not only enhances the aesthetics of the switches through its translucency but also contributes to a sharper and crisper sound output. However, the choice of nylon for the Gold Brown Pro's bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound. Therefore, while both switches excel in sound quality, the choice between them may depend on the specific sound profile desired by the user.
In terms of tactile experience, the differences in housing materials between the Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis become more apparent. The bottom housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, significantly impacts the sound and feel of pressing down on a key. The bottom housing's characteristics manifest in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the top housing material, polycarbonate in both cases, has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for each switch play a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience and sound profile for users to consider when selecting between the Gold Brown Pro and the KTT Phalaenopsis.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Gold Brown Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Phalaenopsis which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis is 50 grams, making it heavier than the Gold Brown Pro, where the bottom out force is unspecified. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Phalaenopsis switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. The difference may not be significant, but it could impact the overall feel and response of the switch, especially for users who are sensitive to such details. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown Pro being slightly shorter than the average 4.0 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. This results in a quiet typing experience that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, creating a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience, with the Gold Brown Pro being more subdued in its sound while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a more pronounced bassy quality.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped. These qualities contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle tactile bump and minimal friction. The switch offers a light typing feel that is comfortable and approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile sensation with two stages of feedback. This feature adds complexity to the typing experience, allowing users to feel both pre-travel and post-travel during each keystroke. While the specifics of the Phalaenopsis switch's feel may not be as detailed as the Gold Brown Pro, it still provides an enjoyable typing experience with its unique tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and KTT Phalaenopsis switches both offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a more subdued and refined typing experience with a quiet, neutral sound profile, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper, bassier sound with a stepped tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Brown Pro or the Phalaenopsis switch, you can expect a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience in a unique and enjoyable way.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle tactile feedback and quiet typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more effortless typing feel with a discernible tactile bump, the Phalaenopsis switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider the characteristics of each switch carefully to determine which one aligns best with your needs.
Mentioned in this article
