TTC Gold Brown vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Keygeek Raw are two options worth comparing and contrasting. The Gold Brown switch is known for its balanced nature, offering a slight, satisfying bump and moderate weightiness while producing a soft, rounded sound profile. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a delightfully creamy and lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel right out of the box. While the Gold Brown switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished', the Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Gold Brown uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, offering a unique sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. While both materials may provide durability and translucency for RGB lighting, their overall sound profiles will vary greatly.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw incorporates a UMPE & Si blend for its bottom housing, offering a different sound experience exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. These materials will have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Brown and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches may offer unique and exclusive housing materials, they each bring different qualities to the typing experience. The Gold Brown's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, while the Keygeek Raw's blend of Nylon & UPE and UMPE & Si offers a one-of-a-kind sound profile. Regardless of the differences, both switches prioritize durability and functionality in their housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams while the Keygeek Raw is slightly lighter at 57.5 grams. This makes the Keygeek Raw slightly lighter in terms of required force for both actuation and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Keygeek Raw may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the TTC Gold Brown may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold Brown being on the longer side and the Keygeek Raw being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Keygeek Raw for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and 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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch fall under the category of neutral switches, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginner or advanced, and for various settings such as home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. These switches are described as having a rounded, moderate tactile bump that provides a satisfying typing feel without being too pronounced. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch is unlubricated and comes with a slightly textured feel right out of the box. This switch is crafted from a unique material blend that combines Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight typing experience that is ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches.
Overall, both switches offer balanced qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown switch provides a more traditional tactile experience with a moderate weightiness and softer sound profile, the Keygeek Raw switch stands out for its unique material blend and slightly textured feel. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and typing experience, you can achieve similar results with either switch, making them versatile options for a variety of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a balanced tactile switch with a moderate weightiness and rounded sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique material blend switch that is delightfully creamy yet unexpectedly lightweight, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw would suit your preferences. Consider your typing style and preferences, as well as the specific characteristics of each switch, to make an informed decision on which switch would best suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their own distinct features, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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