TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown switch provides a well-balanced typing experience with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, resulting in a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch is designed for quiet professionalism, featuring gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office settings. While the Gold Brown switch offers a softer sound and a polished feel, the Mini i switch excels in being lightweight and easy-to-press, perfect for long hours of comfortable typing. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. However, the Gold Brown's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience of the switches. The bottom housing, being softer and more sound-absorbent, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches with nylon housings. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound.
While the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mini i offer different sound profiles, they both aim to provide an enhanced typing experience for users. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold Brown's top housing creates a more resonant and clear sound, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Mini i offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to users who prefer a rounder and duller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Mini i has a lighter touch compared to the Gold Brown. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Mini i features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown, while those who prioritize longer typing sessions or light keypresses may find the Mini i more suitable. Both switches offer a tactile feedback, but the difference in actuation and bottom out forces allows users to choose the one that best fits their preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Gold Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional feel, whereas the Mini i offers a shorter travel distance, potentially appealing to those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the faster feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, both the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Mini i switches fall under the descriptor of 'Neutral'. This means that they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most situations, whether it be for beginners or advanced users, and whether they are used at home or in a work environment. The actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard they are installed in and the keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gold Brown is described as having a 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished' feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches are described as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped'. While both switches offer a gentle typing experience, the Gold Brown switches provide a smooth and refined keystroke experience with a moderate amount of tactility, whereas the Gateron Mini i switches offer a more lively and responsive typing feel with a lighter actuation force.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Mini i switches offer a balanced and neutral sound profile, making them versatile for various users and environments. However, when it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switches lean towards a more polished and accented tactility, while the Gateron Mini i switches provide a bouncy and snappy typing experience. Depending on your preference for typing feel, you can expect similar results in sound quality, but distinct differences in the tactile feedback between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between TTC Gold Brown tactile switches and Gateron Mini i tactile switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a satisfying bump, then the Gold Browns may be more suited to your needs. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a muted sound profile perfect for office settings, the Mini i switches may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a buttery and polished typing experience or a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, both switches offer their own unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. Consider your typing preferences and environment when making your decision.
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