TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Type L offer unique experiences for different preferences. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides a subtle and nuanced feedback with its gentle tactile bump, perfect for those who value understated tactile experiences and minimal distraction. In contrast, the Gateron Type L is a linear switch that boasts being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, while delivering a sound signature on the deeper end of the spectrum. Each switch has its own characteristics and benefits, making it important to consider your typing style and preferences before making a decision. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Type L, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, users can expect similar acoustic experiences from both the Gold Brown Pro and the Type L.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, a noticeable difference arises between the two switches. The Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in materials highlights the importance of the top housing in influencing the sound when pressing down and letting go of a key on each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Type L plays a significant role in determining the sound characteristics and user experience. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the difference in their top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. Whether users prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Gold Brown Pro or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Type L, each switch offers a unique auditory experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, the actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro is 45 grams, while the Type L is lighter at 38 grams. The Gold Brown Pro does not list a bottom out force, while the Type L has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is on the lighter side. The actuation force is crucial for triggering a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Type L for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown Pro for its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly shorter key press for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the Gold Brown Pro for this reason. On the other hand, the Type L switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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 often described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. This switch offers a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force, allowing for a balanced and pleasant typing sound that is not overly distracting. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is also described as neutral but with a more subdued sound signature, offering a quieter typing experience that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile suitable for most users, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a slightly richer and deeper sound compared to the more subtle and dampened sound of the Type L.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, and subtle typing experience. It provides a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction, resulting in a sleek typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With a mild and stepped tactile feel, this switch offers a gentle resistance and a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal exertion from the fingers. This switch enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing feel that is responsive and low-impact. Both switches provide a light and comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more refined and polished feel compared to the easy-to-press and feathery feel of the Type L.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is best suited for those seeking a subtle and nuanced tactile experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. It offers a polished and silky feel that is smooth and refined, providing a mild and stepped tactile experience that is gentle on the fingers. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is ideal for users looking for a light and easy-to-press linear switch with a more subdued sound profile. It offers a feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for tactile feedback and typing experience. If you value subtle tactility and a quieter typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smoother typing feel, the Type L switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize nuanced tactile feedback or a lighter keystroke feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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