TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a tactile and linear switch can greatly impact your typing experience. The TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, providing a gentle bump with a subdued sound profile that allows for a quiet and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie boasts a thocky sound signature and exceptional smoothness due to its all-POM construction, offering a different typing sensation altogether. While the Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who prefer understated tactility, the Smoothie is perfect for those who enjoy a buttery smooth and silky typing experience. 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
40g
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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie opts for a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to those who enjoy a softer typing feel. While the top housing materials differ, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their distinct sound profiles.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, known for offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Smoothie utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound, albeit on the deeper and more muted side. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by altering the sound profile based on the bottom housing material used. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a deeper, muted tone, both switches offer a variety of options to cater to different preferences.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Smoothie, both switches aim to provide a unique and customizable typing experience based on the sound profile desired by the user. Whether opting for the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate or the deep and muted tone of POM, both switches offer a range of options to suit individual preferences. Additionally, the impact of each housing material on the typing experience is highlighted, showcasing how the choice of housing material can significantly alter the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but typically tactile switches like the Gold Brown Pro require more force to fully press down compared to linear switches like the Smoothie. The lighter actuation force of the Smoothie may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions, making it a popular choice for those who value lighter switches. However, some users may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro for a more satisfying and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see that the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Smoothie's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, the Gold Brown Pro provides a slightly deeper keypress experience. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for its slightly extended travel distance, which can offer a more tactile response during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker, more responsive keypress may lean towards the Gateron Smoothie with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral profile, producing a quiet and subtle sound that won't disturb those around you. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky and subdued sound that adds a deep and satisfying tone to your typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Gold Brown Pro focusing on a more understated sound, while the Smoothie delivers a rich, thocky sound that some users may find more satisfying.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch boasts a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with gentle resistance and a two-stage tactile feedback. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie switch provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. Both switches excel in delivering a smooth and pleasant typing feel, with the Gold Brown Pro aiming for a more polished and subtle approach, while the Smoothie offers a buttery and creamy sensation that some users may prefer.
Considering the information provided, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer high-quality typing experiences with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a quiet and understated sound profile paired with a polished and subtle typing feel, ideal for those who seek a nuanced and refined tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its thocky and rich sound signature coupled with a buttery and creamy typing sensation, perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced and luxurious keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer top-notch performance in their respective qualities, ensuring that users will enjoy a premium typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a thocky sound with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the Gateron Smoothie switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness and sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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