TTC Gold Brown vs. Durock Medium Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced nature, offering a slight and satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. They have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches, without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out with its pronounced yet balanced tactility, creating a unique typing experience. It also has a jelly-like sound signature, adding to its appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock Medium Tactile, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal option for switches aiming to produce a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of these switches.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown and the Medium Tactile employ nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material offers a different sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The result is a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by individuals seeking a more muted typing experience.

When considering the overall impact of the housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings of the switches. While pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing become prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate, will have a more noticeable impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer similar benefits in terms of creating a distinct sound profile and are suitable for those looking to enhance their typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Gold Brown switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a relatively light and effortless keystroke initiation. In contrast, the actuation force for the Medium Tactile switch remains unknown. However, the Gold Brown switch's bottom out force is 63 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance when fully pressing down. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a known bottom out force of 65 grams, suggesting a slightly heavier feel during typing.

Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would likely gravitate towards the Gold Brown switch. Its lower actuation force allows for smoother and longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, individuals seeking a more substantial and robust typing feel might opt for the Durock Medium Tactile switch. With its higher bottom out force, it offers a stronger push sensation, enhancing the typing experience for those who desire a more pronounced feedback.

While the actuation force for the Medium Tactile switch is unknown, it is safe to assume that it will deliver results similar to the Gold Brown switch in terms of initiating keystrokes. However, the difference lies in their bottom out forces, with the Medium Tactile switch being slightly heavier than the Gold Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences, with some favoring lighter switches for longer typing sessions and others preferring the weightier feel for a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feel with their identical travel distances. So whether you choose the TTC Gold Brown or the Durock Medium Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is best described as having a neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. The rounded sound profile of the Gold Brown is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, as no specific information is available. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps used. Therefore, while we can expect a softer sound from the Gold Brown, we cannot provide a definitive comparison for the Medium Tactile.

In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing sensation, making it approachable for most users. The buttery characteristic indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Gold Brown switch also falls under the category of an accented switch, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, which implies a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch shares some similarities with the Gold Brown in terms of feel. It is also described as an accented switch, providing a prominent level of tactility without being too overwhelming. The Medium Tactile switch is also considered mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, it is also described as stepped, which means it may have a two-stage keystroke with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Overall, based on the available information, both switches seem to offer a similar typing experience with mild tactility, smooth key travel, and reduced friction.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is known for its balanced qualities, providing a slight yet satisfying bump, moderate weightiness, a softer sound profile, and a mild and buttery typing experience. The Durock Medium Tactile switch also offers a balanced level of tactility, a jelly-like sound signature (although specific details are unknown), and a typing experience described as accented, mild, polished, and stepped. While the sound profile of the Medium Tactile switch is unclear, its feel shares similarities with the Gold Brown, making it a viable option for those seeking a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches may come down to personal preference and factors such as availability and price.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced tactile switch with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown would be a great choice. It has a rounded and softer sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use at home or work. Additionally, the Gold Brown offers a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is worth considering. This switch is also accented, stepped, and offers a mild and polished feel. The stepped tactility gives a more mild sensation with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. Overall, the Medium Tactile switch provides a gentle typing experience with approachable sound and feel qualities.

Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock Medium Tactile switch depends on personal preference for specific characteristics such as bump intensity, weightiness, and sound signature. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch would enhance your typing experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more