TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as excellent options, each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides a subtle tactile bump, resulting in a quiet and immersive typing experience perfect for those who value understated tactility. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is a linear switch known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, ensuring smoothness, stability, and reduced noise during typing. While the Gold Brown Pro emphasizes a gentle tactile feedback, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silent typing with its unparalleled smoothness. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in top housing material between the two switches mean that users can expect a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when using either switch.
In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in bottom housing material between the two switches, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the key.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches significantly impacts the sound profile and typing experience. While polycarbonate top housings create a clearer and more resonant sound, nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between the two housing materials allows users to feel the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Whether opting for the Gold Brown Pro or the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have an unknown weight, making it difficult to compare which one is heavier or lighter. The actuation force of these switches makes them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with heavier bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive feel. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster response times. However, individuals who prefer a deeper keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness. Both switches offer a different feel due to the slight difference in travel distance, so users should test them out to determine which one suits their typing style best.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 comparing the subjective qualities of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the sound profile of the Gold Brown Pro is characterized as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound that remains subtle and mellow. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. Moving on to feel, the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped typing experience, providing smooth key travel, gentle resistance, and a refined feel. In contrast, the feel of the Zero Degree 0° is also unknown. Considering all available information, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch with a subdued sound and a gentle typing experience, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is suitable for individuals who prioritize smoothness, stability, and noise reduction during typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying experience for newcomers seeking the perfect mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a subtle and understated tactile typing experience with a gentle bump and quiet operation, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth, stable, and quiet linear switch that absorbs sound and reduces noise with its innovative design, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smooth linear operation in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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