TTC Gold Brown vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch, and the Zuoce Lavender, a linear switch. The Gold Brown is favored for its balanced feel, slight bump, moderate weightiness, and softer sound profile, while the Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness, crisp and clacky sound signature, and satisfying keystrokes. The Gold Brown is often described as neutral, mild, buttery, accented, and polished, whereas the Lavender is categorized as easy to press and clacky. Both switches have their own unique attributes that can cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Zuoce Lavender, we can see that they both have unique qualities that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Lavender's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their own distinct characteristics that can appeal to different preferences in terms of typing sound and feel.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gold Brown utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Similarly, the Lavender's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, emphasizing the unique qualities of POM as a housing material. While both switches have different top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a pleasing typing experience with their respective sound profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Zuoce Lavender will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown may offer a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Lavender provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings of each switch further enhance the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch. The Gold Brown requires 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Lavender only needs 48 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, putting it in the medium-light category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Lavender switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In comparison, the Gold Brown may be more suitable for those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel while typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Comparing the two, we can see that the Gold Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance than the Lavender switch. The Gold Brown's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the Lavender's 3.4 mm travel distance falls on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lavender switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Gold Brown. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the Gold Brown providing a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lavender switch.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a balanced sound profile with a slight, satisfying bump and moderate weightiness, resulting in a softer sound than most switches. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch provides a crisp and clacky sound signature, making each keystroke distinctly satisfying. The Gold Brown is more neutral in sound, suitable for various purposes, while the Lavender is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. It also provides a moderate amount of tactility that is not overwhelming nor subtle, giving a polished and refined finish. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender switch is easy-to-press, with gentle resistance during key presses and a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing. Overall, the Lavender switch enhances the typing experience by offering a low-impact feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Gold Brown provides a balanced sound and a polished, mild feel, while the Lavender offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press, smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference in terms of sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. If you prefer a softer, balanced sound with a mild tactility, the Gold Brown may be the better choice. For those who enjoy a sharp, clacky sound and easy-to-press keys, the Zuoce Lavender switch would be a great option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a soft sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound signature, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, desired sound, and actuation force when selecting between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so make your decision based on what features are most important to you.
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