TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique tactile experiences for typists. The Gold Brown Pro is known for its subtle and nuanced feedback, providing a gentle tactile bump that allows users to immerse themselves in their tasks without distraction. On the other hand, the Plum switch stands out for its hefty feel without a pronounced tactile bump, offering a different tactile experience that is rare among tactile switches. While the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished and low-pitched typing experience, the Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh Plum are quite similar, as both feature polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it aesthetically pleasing as well. Both switches offer these benefits, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile that is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with its deeper sound profile and softer feel. Despite the difference in top housing material, both switches offer a balance of qualities in their bottom housing that contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience.
In essence, while the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh Plum may differ in their bottom housing material, the overall typing experience may be quite similar. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile with the added bonus of RGB lighting capabilities. Additionally, their nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making for a pleasant typing experience. Whether you prefer a slightly sharper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences while still providing a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Plum switch is heavier at 70 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro switch is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gold Brown Pro switch may be the more suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The slight difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant for most users, as they will likely feel quite similar when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of feel and keypress feedback rather than the small variance in travel distance.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, creating a deep and satisfying sound with every keystroke. This sound profile, coupled with its neutral characteristics, ensures that it remains a subtle background noise, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The Plum's sound is described as enjoyable and neutral, providing a pleasing auditory experience without being overly loud or distracting.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is praised for its polished, silky, and subtle qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The gentle resistance of the switch provides a light typing feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the stepped characteristics of the switch add a unique touch by providing a two-stage tactile feel. In contrast, the Kailh Plum switch also features a mild and stepped feel, offering a gentle typing experience with subtle tactile feedback. The Plum switch provides a comfortable middle-ground typing feel that is suitable for a variety of users.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Kailh Plum switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro switch is ideal for those who value a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with a quiet sound profile, while the Plum switch provides a comfortable typing feel with a neutral sound. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more polished and silky feel with a thocky sound (TTC Gold Brown Pro) or a mild and stepped feel with a neutral sound (Kailh Plum).
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch or the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you appreciate a subtle and nuanced tactile bump with a subdued sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown Pro would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier feeling switch with a unique tactile experience and a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum may be more to your liking. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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