TTC Gold Brown vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference, especially when considering the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh BCP. The TTC Gold Brown is celebrated for its balanced design, providing a satisfying tactile bump that offers just enough feedback without being overly pronounced. With a moderate actuation force, users can enjoy a soft but rounded sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of typing precision and auditory comfort. In contrast, the Kailh BCP stands out with its linear characteristics, delivering a creamy, elastic feel that's both bouncy and engaging. This switch is perfect for users who favor a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke combined with a poppy and clacky auditory signature, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of flair in their typing experience. While both switches cater to different preferences—trading tactile feedback for seamlessness and auditory delight—it's essential to dive deeper into each switch's unique qualities to determine which one truly fits your typing style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh BCP switches, it is evident that the top housing materials differ significantly, influencing the overall auditory experience of each switch. The TTC Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes polycarbonate conducive for RGB lighting applications, allowing light to shine through brilliantly. In contrast, the Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, a material celebrated for its ability to absorb sound more effectively due to its softer nature, leading to a deeper and fuller sound. Consequently, while the Gold Brown delivers a brighter auditory response suitable for a more pronounced keystroke experience, the BCP provides a more muted and rounded sound, underscoring the varied tonal qualities emanating from each switch.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share a commonality as they are both constructed from nylon, a classic choice for switch housing. This similarity translates to a consistent depth and fullness in this aspect of their sound profiles. Since nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties, both switches would generate a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out. This shared characteristic in bottom housing is significant, as it suggests that users of either switch can expect a comparable sensation when their key presses reach the bottom, enhancing the tactile experience regardless of the auditory nuances created by the top housing material.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials between the TTC Gold Brown and Kailh BCP play a pivotal role in shaping their respective sound profiles. While the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top offers a sharper, more resonant tone, the nylon top of the BCP provides a softer and more subdued auditory response. However, because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the keypress experience, particularly how a user feels the actuation and bottoming out of the switch, will be markedly similar. Therefore, the choice between the two switches may boil down to a preference for the distinct tonal qualities made possible by their respective top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, though their bottom out forces are quite similar. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the BCP switch is slightly lighter at 52 grams. This means that users who prefer a less demanding keystroke might lean towards the Kailh BCP, making it a suitable option for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches have comparable bottom out forces, with the Gold Brown at 63 grams and the BCP at 63.5 grams, suggesting that users will experience a similar level of resistance when fully pressing down on either switch. Overall, while the TTC Gold Brown provides a heavier typing feel with its greater actuation force, the Kailh BCP offers a lighter touch, catering to different user preferences for tactile feedback and typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh BCP linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience: the Gold Brown's 4 mm travel offers a more tactile depth that some users may find more satisfying, particularly those who appreciate a traditional key feel. In contrast, the Kailh BCP's 3.5 mm travel distance caters to users who prefer a quicker actuation and response time, making it a suitable choice for gamers who favor rapid key presses. Ultimately, the TTC Gold Brown is the longer switch, ideal for those seeking a hearty typing experience, while the Kailh BCP is the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive feel.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 sound profiles of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, the Gold Brown is known for its rounded and softer sound, making it a suitable choice for various environments, whether at home or work. This neutral tone contributes to a typing experience that is less intrusive while still providing a satisfying auditory feedback, characterized by its moderate actuation force. Conversely, the BCP switch produces a distinctively poppy and clacky sound, elevating the auditory experience to one that is more attention-grabbing and expressive. While both switches deliver a unique sound, the Gold Brown leans towards comfort and subtlety, whereas the BCP emphasizes a livelier sound that could appeal to those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown tactile switch stands out for providing a well-rounded typing experience that is both approachable and versatile. It features a mild yet accented tactile feedback, allowing users to enjoy a gentle yet noticeable bump without feeling overwhelmed. The buttery smoothness and polished characteristics make for a refined keystroke journey, offering reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP is designed to deliver a creamy and elastic sensation that leans into a more dynamic tactile appeal. The characteristics of the BCP contribute to a bouncier and livelier typing experience, marked by a significant tactile response that contrasts with the more balanced feel of the Gold Brown.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a soft, rounded sound and a mild tactile feedback that suits a wide audience, the Kailh BCP linear switch delivers a poppy sound with a creamy and bouncy feel that could captivate users looking for a more expressive typing experience. The Gold Brown excels in environments requiring discretion and comfort, whereas the BCP appeals to those who enjoy an engaging, lively sensation while typing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a balanced, subtle experience or a more vibrant and responsive one.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and what you intend to use your mechanical keyboard for. If you gravitate towards a balanced tactile experience that provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming, the Gold Brown is an excellent choice. Its moderate sound profile and medium bottom-out force make it suitable for a variety of settings, from gaming to typing at the office. This switch is particularly appealing if you're a newcomer looking for a gentle yet responsive feel, as it strikes that perfect balance between tactile and smooth, offering a polished and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, if you seek a livelier, more dynamic feel with a signature poppy sound, then the Kailh BCP linear switch might be more to your liking. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force and bouncy, elastic feel, it's ideal for gamers looking for rapid responses and those who enjoy a more playful typing experience. The BCP's unique sound profile enhances this sense of fun, making it a great option for creative typing tasks or casual gaming sessions. In essence, your decision should reflect your typing style, sound preferences, and the environment you will be using the keyboard in.
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