TTC Gold Brown vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear switches can greatly impact your typing or gaming experience. Two popular options worth considering are the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Pink switches. The Gold Brown switches are best known for their balanced characteristics. With a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, they offer a tactile feedback that many typists find pleasing. These switches also have a softer sound profile, making them ideal for environments where quieter typing is desired. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switches prioritize speed and effortless typing. With an actuation force of 37g, they are some of the lightest switches available on the market. Designed for rapid typing and gaming, they provide a clacky sound and a lively typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Pink, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches feature a translucent top housing, making them suitable for RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and aesthetics related to the top housing, the Gold Brown and the Gold Pink will yield similar results.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Hence, the Gold Brown and the Gold Pink will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing.
However, it is crucial to note that when a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housings, these housing materials have distinct impacts on the switch's overall performance. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feeling when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound that is produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the Gold Brown and the Gold Pink share similarities in their housing materials, they may still offer slightly different experiences based on the unique combination of their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, while the Gold Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown is heavier with 63 grams compared to the Gold Pink's 45 grams. These variances indicate that the Gold Pink provides a lighter overall typing experience, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push, making it ideal for those who prefer a heavier and more satisfying keystroke. Overall, the weight or force of the switches can greatly impact an individual's typing preference and endurance, and both options provide distinct advantages depending on the user's needs and preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide the same result, ensuring a consistent typing experience. The TTC switches are designed to have a similar tactile feel and overall performance, making them suitable options for individuals who prefer a tactile or linear typing experience. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or the Gold Pink, you can expect a 4 mm travel distance that guarantees a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 switch offers a balanced and rounded sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. The sound produced by these switches is generally softer compared to most switches, although it is not completely silent. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the TTC Gold Pink switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Gold Pink switches offer a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke. They provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions such as gaming, school, or work. The Gold Brown switch is also described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience and a sleek typing experience. The Gold Pink switch, on the other hand, is described as feathery and subtle, implying that it requires little exertion from the fingers and has a light typing feel. Both switches are suitable for most individuals due to their approachable qualities and safe middle-ground zones.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Gold Pink switches have some similarities in terms of feel, both offering a buttery and smooth keystroke experience. However, the Gold Brown switch is best known for its balanced and softer sound profile, while no specific information is available about the sound of the Gold Pink switch. Overall, both switches provide satisfying feedback and are suitable for various purposes, depending on individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, you should consider your preferences regarding weight, typing experience, and sound profile. The Gold Brown switch has a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. It offers a balanced typing experience with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The rounded sound profile is softer than most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch has a light bottom out force of 45 grams, perfect for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. It delivers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound.
If you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force and a moderate sound profile, suitable for most purposes, the Gold Brown is the way to go. It provides a mild and buttery typing experience with accented and polished qualities. Alternatively, if you prioritize a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild and buttery feel, the Gold Pink switch is a great choice. It also offers feathery and subtle characteristics, reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing experience.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and intended use. Whether you prefer a balanced typing experience or a light and lively one, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gold Pink switches offer unique qualities that are sure to enhance your typing or gaming experience. Select the one that aligns with your preferences and enjoy a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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