TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from to enhance your typing experience. Two popular switches worth comparing are the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch, and the TTC Speed Silver, a linear switch. The Gold Brown Pro is ideal for users who prefer a subtle and nuanced feedback while typing, with its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile allowing for a quiet and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is perfect for those who prioritize speed and precision, featuring a light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick and efficient actuation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the TTC Speed Silver, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the nature of polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches' polycarbonate housings are ideal for use with RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, the Gold Brown Pro stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
Despite having different bottom housings, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Speed Silver offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. The bottom housing's characteristics have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, affecting the sound and feel when the keys are pressed down. However, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when letting go of a key. Therefore, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the sound profile while typing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, while both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and RGB lighting compatibility, the Gold Brown Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon results in a more muffled and rounded sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences, taking into consideration the impact of both top and bottom housing materials on the overall feel and sound of the switch.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users can expect a similar level of sensitivity when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown Pro has an unknown amount while the Speed Silver requires 55 grams to bottom out. This makes the Speed Silver slightly heavier and may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown Pro due to its unknown bottom out force, which could potentially result in a lighter overall feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Speed Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Gold Brown Pro may provide a more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance. Both switches, however, offer a travel distance that falls within the range of popular preferences for mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Gold Brown Pro switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience with a neutral sound profile, emitting a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a quiet and understated typing sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for most settings. The Speed Silver switch offers a more pristine sound compared to the Gold Brown Pro, making it a good choice for those who prefer a clear and precise typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience. This switch offers a smooth and refined feel with a gentle resistance, perfect for those seeking a nuanced tactile feedback without being too pronounced. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall within the safe, middle-ground zone of typing feel, catering to a wide range of users.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a subdued and subtle typing experience with a unique tactile feedback, ideal for those who value a quiet and refined typing sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a fast and precise typing experience with a smooth and polished feel, perfect for those who prioritize speed and accuracy in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, you should opt for the Gold Brown Pro if you prefer a subtle tactile experience with a quiet sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who seek a gentle feedback without any distractions during typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the Speed Silver is the way to go. With a light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance, this switch offers a fast and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a nuanced tactile feedback (Gold Brown Pro) or a swift typing experience (Speed Silver).
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