TTC Gold Brown vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Iron offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gold Brown is praised for its balanced nature, featuring a slight bump for tactile feedback and a moderate weightiness. Its soft sound profile adds a sense of quiet satisfaction to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Iron linear switch stands out for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, making typing sessions swift and fatigue-free. While the Gold Brown leans towards a softer, buttery feel, the Iron excels in precision and pleasure with its smooth travel. 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
55g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and TTC Iron both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Iron's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown is also translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Iron offers a more understated aesthetic. However, both top housing materials bring their own distinct characteristics to the overall sound experience of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gold Brown utilizes a nylon material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Iron, which also contributes to the deeper and more muted sound profile of the switch. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in both the Gold Brown and Iron switches creates a unique sound experience for users. While the Gold Brown may have a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Iron offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing. Both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Iron. The Gold Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Iron has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force of a switch determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the Iron switch would be the ideal choice. Alternatively, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Gold Brown switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is a crucial factor to consider based on personal preference and intended use.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Iron switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially impact the typing experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown offering a bit more depth to the key press compared to the Iron. Depending on individual preferences, some users may find the Gold Brown to be more suitable for a more substantial key press feel, while others may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Iron for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in keyboard switches.
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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 offers a neutral sound profile with a softer tone compared to most switches, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Iron provides a clacky sound signature that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing, which can be described as sharp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch provides a balanced and mild tactile experience with a moderate actuation force, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users. The switch offers a buttery and polished keystroke feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Iron switch offers an easy-to-press sensation with light actuation force, enhancing typing efficiency and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct tactile and typing experiences, ideal for users seeking different levels of feedback and key response.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Iron switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of user preferences and typing styles. While the Gold Brown provides a softer and balanced sound and feel, the Iron delivers a more pronounced clacky sound and easy-to-press sensation. Whether you prioritize a gentle tactile experience or a sharp and responsive keystroke, both switches offer their own advantages and characteristics that can elevate your typing experience. Consider your preferences and typing habits when choosing between these switches to ensure optimal satisfaction and comfort while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the TTC Iron linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force with a pronounced clacky sound and buttery smooth travel, the Iron switch might be more suitable. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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