TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch. The Gold Brown switches are best known for their balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump while maintaining a moderate weightiness. These switches offer a softer sound profile compared to many others without being completely silent, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Reds are distinguished by their lower actuation force, making them perfect for individuals with a lighter typing style. These linear switches are satisfyingly smooth, producing a crispy and clacky sound profile that many typists enjoy. Effortless to type on, the Gateron Ink Red switches offer a different feel and sound compared to the TTC Gold Browns. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials for the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Ink Red switches have distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which produces a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. Both materials contribute to a satisfying auditory experience, with the Gold Brown emphasizing clarity and the Ink Red providing a clacky tone.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gold Brown incorporates nylon. Typing on switches with nylon housings generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Ink Red employs Gateron's INK blend for its bottom housing, which creates a pointed and high-pitched sound. Both nylon and the INK blend contribute to a thinner and more resonant sound experience.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Gold Brown and Ink Red switches, their overall impact on sound is equally significant. Pressing down on a switch reveals the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller keystroke, while the Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing offers a pointed and clacky sensation. On the other hand, the top housing plays a role in the sound produced when you release a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown emphasizes a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while Gateron's INK blend in the Ink Red provides a pointed yet satisfyingly clacky tone upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are a few notable differences and similarities. In terms of weight, the Gold Brown is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Ink Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Gold Brown will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher forces required.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Red would be a suitable choice. With a lower actuation force, it allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it ideal for longer periods of typing or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Brown's heavier forces provide a stronger push feel, allowing users to feel a bit more resistance and giving a more satisfying feedback when typing. This can be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience.
Despite these differences, both switches fall into the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces. This means that overall, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired level of force and feedback during typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled. Therefore, both switches offer a consistent and reliable tactile feedback, ensuring a responsive typing experience. Whether you choose the TTC Gold Brown or the Gateron Ink Red, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. In terms of which one is shorter or longer, we can conclude that both switches have an equal travel distance.
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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 provides a balanced and rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, without being completely silent. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red switch also has a moderate sound profile, making it versatile for various typing styles and environments. Additionally, the Ink Red switch has a unique chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a gentle and approachable typing experience. It provides a mild level of tactile feedback, which is described as accented, meaning that it provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Gold Brown switch is also renowned for its buttery and polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a silky and mild typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Moreover, the Ink Red switch also offers a polished feel, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Ink Red switches provide a balanced actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most typing styles and skill levels. While the Gold Brown switch offers a slight, satisfying tactile bump and a softer sound profile, the Ink Red switch is a linear switch with a lower actuation force, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. Overall, both switches offer pleasant sound and feel qualities, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. With these switches, users can expect a moderate sound profile, versatility in typing styles, and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing style and enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a lower actuation force and offer a crispy and clacky sound profile. Both switches have a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The Gold Brown provides a mild and buttery feel, while the Ink Red offers a silky and mild typing experience. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Ink Red switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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