TTC Gold Brown vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown and the Bsun Olive are two popular options to consider. The Gold Brown is known for its balanced feel, slight satisfying bump, and moderate weightiness, providing a softer sound profile compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive stands out with its resonant, deep sound due to its all-POM housings and pronounced tactile feedback. The long pole stem of the Olive ensures a crisp bottom-out, resulting in a uniquely satisfying tactile and auditory experience. While the Gold Brown offers a more neutral and mild typing experience, the Olive is characterized by its invigorating and sharp feel. 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
65g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and Bsun Olive switches both offer unique characteristics in terms of their housing materials. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Olive's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users. However, both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Gold Brown showcasing a clearer and resonant sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Olive offers a more subtle and pleasing sound with its POM top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Gold Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Olive also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to the switches' unique and deep sound profile that is relatively more muted. Despite the differences in the bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. The choice between nylon and POM bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences among users.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Brown and Bsun Olive switches result in contrasting sound profiles that cater to various user preferences. The use of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gold Brown offers a sharper and deeper sound profile, respectively, while the Olive's POM materials provide a more muted and pleasing sound experience. Both switches prioritize sound quality and aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users, albeit in slightly different ways. Overall, whether you prefer a sharper and clearer sound with the Gold Brown or a deeper and more muted sound with the Olive, both switches offer unique characteristics that can elevate your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown requires a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Olive's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Olive is heavier at 65 grams, while the Gold Brown is lighter at 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Those who enjoy a lighter touch may lean towards the Olive, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Gold Brown. Ultimately, users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches, as their forces are not drastically different.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the TTC Gold Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Olive. The Gold Brown's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper press, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial key feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a shorter press, ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both options have their advantages, with the Gold Brown offering a deeper key feel and the Olive providing a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 switch offers a softer, more rounded sound profile that is generally quieter compared to the Bsun Olive switch, which produces a deep and resonant sound due to its all-POM housings. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and gentle keystroke that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a distinct and firm bump that creates a more immersive typing sensation. Both switches fall into the category of "accented" tactile switches, providing a medium amount of tactility that is noticeable without being overwhelming.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a softer sound and a balanced tactile feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper, more resonant sound with a pronounced tactile feedback, the Bsun Olive switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the Bsun Olive tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a deeper, more resonant sound and a pronounced tactile feedback that results in a sharp bottom-out, the Olive switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing feel and sound profile you find most satisfying and comfortable.
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