TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Duck mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience but with distinct characteristics. The Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who prefer a subtle and nuanced feedback, with its gentle tactile bump providing a background presence that allows for immersive typing without being distracting. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a more clean and crispy typing experience with a gentle tactility that appeals to those seeking a softer touch. While both switches are categorized as 'Polished' and 'Mild', the Gold Brown Pro is also described as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', 'Neutral', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped', while the Duck is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing, making them suitable for RGB lighting setups. While the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a different sound experience with a deeper tone, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile. The split between the top and bottom housings allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key and hear the influence of the top housing when releasing the key, providing a unique typing experience for each switch.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Duck ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper tone, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper sound profile. Whether you prioritize a fuller sound or a crisper sound, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Duck's unspecified actuation force. However, the Duck is heavier when it comes to bottom out force, requiring 58 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's unknown bottom out force. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Duck. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the Gold Brown Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Duck's 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both fall within the range of acceptable travel distances for switches. The Gold Brown Pro may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers, due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Duck's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing for those who prefer a greater depth in key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 offers a low-pitched and thocky experience, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. This switch's neutral sound profile ensures it is suitable for various settings and preferences. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch also features a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for a wide range of users. The clean and crispy sound of the Duck switch complements its mild and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, and subtle typing experience. With a mild and stepped tactile feel, typists can enjoy a refined and gentle keystroke without excessive resistance. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a mild and buttery feel, with a polished finish that enhances smoothness and reduces friction. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience, making them suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and SP-Star Duck switches both provide users with subtle and tactile typing experiences. While the Gold Brown Pro offers a thocky sound and a polished feel, the Duck switch features a clean sound profile and a buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. However, users can expect similar levels of comfort and quality from both switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you value a subtle tactile bump and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. Its polished and silky feel combined with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile make it perfect for those who want to type without distractions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more buttery and mild typing experience with a clean and neutral sound profile, then the SP-Star Duck is the choice for you. It provides a gentle tactility and smooth key travel, ideal for those seeking a comfortable and fluid typing sensation. Consider your typing habits and preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience tailored to your liking.
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