TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, users often find themselves torn between tactile and linear options, each offering unique benefits tailored to different preferences and typing styles. The TTC Gold Brown switch is celebrated for its balanced feel, featuring a satisfying bump that provides tactile feedback without being overly pronounced. This moderate resistance paired with a rounded sound profile makes it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a blend of response and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switch introduces a cutting-edge design with its POK stem and Nylon-POM housing, offering a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that typists and gamers alike may appreciate for its swift and linear action. While the Gold Brown excels in providing tactile feedback for those who prefer a more engaged typing experience, the Mars is ideal for users who seek fast, fluid movements without the distraction of any tactile bump. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mars, we see a clear contrast in the selections for their top housing. The TTC Gold Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for producing a sharper, more resonant sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This choice allows for a crisper typing experience, especially beneficial for RGB enthusiasts since the translucent quality of polycarbonate enhances the visibility of lighting effects. In contrast, the Gateron Mars employs a nylon top housing, which delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer properties that absorb sound rather than reflecting it. Users of the Mars will find that this results in a rounder auditory experience, creating a subtle yet rich typing sensation.
Looking at the bottom housings, the difference persists with the Gold Brown utilizing nylon while the Mars opts for POM. Both nylon and POM are respected for their distinct sound profiles, but POM typically results in a more muted and pleasingly unique sound. The Gold Brown’s nylon bottom housing also contributes a certain depth to the audio experience, known for its ability to soften the sound and enable a more plush typing experience. This juxtaposition presents an interesting scenario: while both switches feature a softer bottom housing material, the POM material tends to create a distinct character that underscores nuances in the typing sound that may be less pronounced in the Gold Brown.
In terms of overall performance, even with differing materials, the tactile and auditory results can be remarkably similar through careful design integration. For instance, the Gold Brown's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom can yield an effective balance of crispness and warmth, while the Mars's nylon top and POM bottom likewise aim to balance sound absorption with resonance. Ultimately, users may find that pressing down on either switch will create a nuanced sound experience, allowing both to excel in their intended auditory profiles. Whether one prefers the sharper clarity of the Gold Brown or the deeper tones of the Mars, both switches can deliver satisfying results for typing preferences, showcasing that differences in housing material do not necessarily equate to a superior experience but rather highlight different acoustic signatures.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, which provides a medium effort required to trigger a keystroke, while the Mars is lighter at 45 grams, making it easier to actuate. This means that typists who prefer a softer touch may find the Mars more comfortable for extended use, potentially reducing finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. The bottom out force of the Gold Brown is 63 grams, indicating a firmer feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Mars is currently unavailable, so we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. Overall, the Gold Brown is the heavier switch in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, while the Mars offers a lighter touch for effortless keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there is a notable difference. The TTC Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mars measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Mars switch the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation—often favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold Brown's longer travel distance offers a more substantial feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy that hearty depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a more responsive yet abrupt action or a traditional, deeper keystroke 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 Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 tactile switch offers a rounded sound profile that sits comfortably in the neutral spectrum. This means its sound is moderate, making it suitable for various environments—whether you're a beginner at home or an advanced user in a professional setting. It has a softer sound compared to many other switches, contributing to a more subtle auditory experience without being completely silent. In contrast, the Gateron Mars linear switch does not provide specific information regarding its sound characteristics. This ambiguity leaves us uncertain about how the Mars compares in terms of noise, but generally, linear switches tend to emphasize a smoother, quieter keystroke, which may result in a less pronounced sound than the Gold Brown.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch is characterized by its mildness and buttery texture, which creates a gentle and fluid typing experience. Users can expect a seamless transition with each keystroke, providing a refined and polished interaction that minimizes friction during key travel. The tactile bump is accentuated enough to deliver an enjoyable typing sensation that isn’t overwhelming, striking a balance that many find appealing. The Gateron Mars switch's tactile qualities are left undisclosed, meaning we can't directly compare how its feel matches up against the Gold Brown. However, linear switches like the Mars might provide a different typing experience entirely, potentially lacking the tactile feedback that the Gold Brown offers.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown switch stands out with its balanced sound profile and comforting tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. While the sound of the Gateron Mars switch remains a mystery, it’s likely to favor smoothness typical of linear switches. The Gold Brown’s mild, buttery feel contrasts well with the unpredictability of Mars’s tactile qualities. Ultimately, if you prioritize a soothing auditory experience coupled with a balanced feel, the Gold Brown is an ideal candidate, while the Mars may still offer a distinct typing experience that could appeal to those who prefer linear switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch should depend on your personal typing preferences and use cases. If you desire a switch that strikes a balanced approach with a tactile feedback, the Gold Brown is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams provides a satisfying typing experience that suits both beginners and seasoned typists, thanks to its mild yet pronounced tactile bump and softer sound profile. This makes it ideal for both home and office settings where you may need to balance typing comfort with noise levels. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and enjoy a linear feel, the Gateron Mars switch may be more suitable for you, particularly if you appreciate the innovative design and the buttery fluidity it offers. However, since the specific characteristics of the Mars switch are less defined in terms of sound and feel, it's important to try them out if possible to ensure they meet your needs. Overall, your selection should align with your typing style—choose the Gold Brown for a tactile and balanced experience, and opt for the Mars if you favor a smoother, linear touch.
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