TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch designed for typists who appreciate subtle feedback; its gentle tactile bump provides just enough sensation to confirm each keystroke without overwhelming the user, making it ideal for those seeking a distraction-free environment. Its low-pitched sound profile ensures that every press remains quiet, enhancing focus and immersion. In contrast, the WS Pearl is a linear switch that stands out due to its unique ball-bearing mechanism, which minimizes friction for an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This results in keystrokes that glide effortlessly, providing a medium-high pitched sound that can be satisfying for rapid typists and gamers alike. Choosing between these two switches boils down to whether you value tactile feedback or a seamless keystroke 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
30g
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
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, a significant distinction lies in the material of their top housings. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic not only facilitates a resonant sound that excels with RGB lighting but also accentuates the higher frequencies when a key is released. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a nylon top housing, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound. As a result, the PW Pearl generates a deeper and fuller auditory experience with a rounder sound, particularly evident when a key is pressed and released.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes similarly to their overall sound profile. Nylon's inherent softness allows it to dampen sound, creating a more subdued and enriched tonal quality when typing. This bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the overall feel and bottom-out sound of the switch, which, despite the differences in the top housing materials, will yield a similar tactile experience when engaged. Consequently, both the Gold Brown Pro and WS Pearl can deliver a satisfying typing experience characterized by a deep sound profile, as the nylon composition helps unify the audible characteristics.
Ultimately, although the top housings of the Gold Brown Pro and WS Pearl are different, they achieve distinct sound profiles that can complement each other through their respective materials. The polycarbonate top of the Gold Brown Pro adds clarity and brightness, while the nylon top of the WS Pearl provides warmth and fullness. This combination results in a balanced auditory effect between the two switches, allowing typing enthusiasts to experience both high-pitched clarity in one and deep resonance in the other, while still enjoying a core consistency in the feel and sound foundation established by the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl is lighter at 30 grams, making it easier to press, which can benefit users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unspecified, while the WS Pearl features a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when fully pressed down. This means that using the WS Pearl will provide a more noticeable tactile response at the end of the keystroke compared to the uncertainty surrounding the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter switch for comfort, the WS Pearl would be the better choice, whereas those looking for a more substantial feel might lean towards the Gold Brown Pro, assuming it offers a higher bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, the Gold Brown Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the WS Pearl has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you opt for the Gold Brown Pro, you will experience a more pronounced push when typing or gaming, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Pearl’s shorter travel distance aligns with the preferences of gamers who benefit from faster response times, although it may feel overly abrupt to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: if you prefer a hearty depth, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the better option, whereas if you favor a snappier response, the WS Pearl is the way to go.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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 offers a pleasant auditory experience characterized by its thocky, low-pitched sound profile. This switch produces a deep, rich sound that resembles a soft thud or knock when a key is pressed and released, making it ideal for professionals and students who prefer a quieter environment. Its neutral sound further enhances its versatility, ensuring that it does not attract unnecessary attention, whether in an office or at home. In contrast, the WS Pearl's sound signature is medium-high pitched, leading to a sharper and possibly more pronounced auditory effect. While the specifics of its sound profile are not detailed, the higher pitch suggests a brighter tone that could stand in contrast to the subdued presence of the Gold Brown Pro. However, it is important to note that the overall sound can vary depending on additional factors like the keyboard’s construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro excels with a polished, silky texture that promotes an effortless typing experience. The mild tactile feedback combined with its subtle resistance creates a balanced sensation that is approachable for most typists, allowing for comfortable, prolonged usage without fatigue. The stepped tactile design provides a gentle exploration through the keystroke, contributing to a more refined typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Pearl features a remarkably smooth typing action owing to its unique ball-bearing mechanism, which minimizes friction and enhances the overall experience. While it lacks the tactile feedback found in the Gold Brown Pro, the Pearl’s ultra-smooth movement may appeal to typists who prioritize a seamless glide over tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the WS Pearl switches cater to different preferences—one focusing on tactile feedback and a quiet experience, the other on an exceptionally smooth and possibly brighter auditory profile—both switches provide unique advantages. Users seeking a tactile and low-noise experience will find comfort with the Gold Brown Pro, while those who appreciate a smooth, frictionless feel may be drawn to the WS Pearl. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing style and personal preference, but each has the potential to deliver satisfying results in its own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're someone who appreciates a more subtle tactile experience that allows for continuous focus without distractions, the Gold Brown Pro is likely your best option. Its gentle tactile bump and low sound profile make it ideal for quiet environments, whether you're working in an office or at home. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more fluid typing experience, the WS Pearl linear switch, with its unique ball-bearing design, will provide the silky and polished feel you're looking for. This switch is particularly great if you're into fast-paced gaming or typing where quick and smooth keystrokes are essential. Ultimately, assess what aspects matter more to you—tactility and subtlety with the Gold Brown Pro, or smoothness and speed with the WS Pearl—and choose accordingly.
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