TTC Gold Brown vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown and Cherry MX Purple RGB offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gold Brown switch is celebrated for its balanced design, featuring a slight yet satisfying tactile bump that provides a sense of feedback without overwhelming noise. Its moderate weightiness and rounded, softer sound profile make it an excellent choice for those who value a quieter typing experience while still enjoying tactile engagement. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch delivers a refined tactile experience, characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that caters to users seeking rapid feedback during both work and gaming. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, the MX Purple RGB combines performance with aesthetics, making it an appealing option for RGB lovers. Ultimately, while both switches shine in their own right, the decision between the TTC Gold Brown and Cherry MX Purple RGB hinges on individual preferences for tactile feel and auditory experience. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, a notable distinction lies in the choice of plastic for the top housing. The TTC Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, creating a crisp auditory experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB uses a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer characteristics absorb more sound compared to the harder polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output. Thus, while the Gold Brown's design maximizes sound clarity with its crisper tones, the MX Purple RGB leans into a warm, rich acoustic quality, showcasing a fundamental contrast in auditory experience shaped by their top housing materials.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which harmonizes multiple sound attributes between them. The bottom housing’s impact on the overall sound profile is significant, as it influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when the switch is pressed down. In both cases, nylon’s softer composition lends a fuller sound, enhancing the sensory experience while typing. Given that both the Gold Brown and MX Purple RGB utilizes nylon in their bottom housing, users can expect a similar quality of sound absorption and tactile response at the bottom. Therefore, despite their differences in top housing materials, the switches retain a shared acoustic richness in their overall performance due to the consistent use of nylon at the bottom.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the TTC Gold Brown and the all-nylon composition of the Cherry MX Purple RGB leads to diverse yet complementary typing experiences. Users seeking a higher-pitched and clearer sound may prefer the Gold Brown, while those who favor a deeper and warmer sound profile might lean towards the MX Purple RGB. However, typing on either switch will undoubtedly deliver an engaging tactile feel, with the nylon bottom housing providing a shared foundation that assures full-bodied acoustic characteristics. This comparison highlights how the different top housing materials can distinctly influence the sound profile, while the commonality in bottom housing ensures that the switches share an overall pleasant typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Gold Brown switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it a medium-weight option that provides a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may be preferable for users who value comfort during extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out force of the MX Purple RGB switch remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare its overall feel when pressed all the way down to the Gold Brown's bottom out force of 63 grams. Therefore, while the Gold Brown is the heavier option overall, particularly in terms of bottom out feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a lighter actuation force that could appeal to those seeking a more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch both feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they require the same amount of downward force to activate. This similarity ensures that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and keypress experiences from both switches, making them feel equally responsive. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can swap between them without noticing a significant difference in the mechanics of their keystrokes. As such, keyboard enthusiasts may find either option suitable based on other factors like switch feel or sound, but travel distance will not be a differentiating feature.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 switches offer a rounded, softer sound profile that is definitely on the quieter end of the spectrum. This makes them suitable for various environments, accommodating both home and workplace use without being overly noisy. Their neutral sound nature, marked by a moderate actuation force, allows for a versatile experience whether you're a beginner or more seasoned in typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches' sound characteristics remain unspecified, leaving some uncertainty about their aural feedback. However, the overall sound experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switches provide a mild but enjoyable typing experience, characterized by a gentle actuation that doesn't overwhelm the user. Their tactile feedback is accentuated yet refined, delivering a buttery smoothness that enhances the overall typing sensation. The combination of an accented tactile bump with a polished finish ensures reduced friction and a seamless keystroke experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches isn’t detailed enough to make a direct comparison. Thus, their tactile qualities and user experience remain uncertain.
Collectively, the TTC Gold Brown switches are designed to provide a balanced and approachable typing experience, making them ideal for those seeking a gentle yet engaging tactile feedback with a softer sound. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB's traits haven't been outlined in detail, the differences in sound and feel underscore how the Gold Brown is likely better suited for a softer, more subtle user experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to cater to diverse preferences, yet the TTC Gold Brown stands out with its definitive attributes, offering a well-rounded package for mechanical keyboard newcomers.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a balanced typing experience and prefer a switch that offers a moderate tactile bump without being overly loud, the Gold Brown may be an excellent fit for you. Its medium actuation force of 63 grams ensures a satisfying, yet not exhausting typing experience, making it suitable for both casual and extended use, whether at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you're seeking a refined tactile experience with a shorter, yet firm bump, especially tailored for gaming or fast-paced typing, the MX Purple RGB might be more aligned with your needs. While its actuation force is unspecified, users often appreciate the smooth keystrokes and responsiveness developed in collaboration with enthusiasts, giving it an edge in competitive settings. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you prioritize factors like sound, feel, and overall typing comfort.
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