TTC Gold Brown vs. Kailh Plum

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh Plum are two popular options worth considering. The Gold Brown is best known for its balanced nature, offering a slight but satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. Its rounded sound profile is softer than most switches but not completely silent. On the other hand, the Plum is unique in that it feels quite hefty without featuring a huge tactile bump like many other tactile switches. Its sound profile is neutral and enjoyable. Both switches fall under the neutral and mild categories, providing a pleasant typing 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

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

Kailh Plum Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh Plum, both switches utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in similar characteristics for both switches. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. Hence, users can expect comparable sound profiles and visual effects from both switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gold Brown implements nylon, whereas the Plum also utilizes nylon for this component. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, both the Gold Brown and the Plum switches deliver similar results.

It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall sound profile and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, reflecting the qualities of the nylon material. Conversely, the top housing material, in this case polycarbonate, influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, although the top and bottom housings differ between the Gold Brown and the Plum switches, the split of housing materials allows for a balance of characteristics across both components, ensuring a well-rounded typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a medium level of resistance to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the Gold Brown in terms of initial force required. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force for full depression, which again falls within the medium range. On the other hand, the Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier or medium-heavy in terms of key depression.

Considering weight, which plays a crucial role in user preferences, individuals who prefer lighter switches will appreciate the Gold Brown as it allows for extended typing sessions without strain. This characteristic is particularly suitable for keyboard users at work or for those engaging in longer gaming sessions. In contrast, those seeking a more substantial and pronounced typing experience may be inclined to opt for options with heavier forces. Although the actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown, its higher bottom out force of 70 grams indicates a heavier key depression compared to the Gold Brown.

Overall, while the information regarding the actuation force of the Plum switch is unavailable, it is clear that the Gold Brown offers a lighter touch for actuation and bottom out. This provides a comparable result to the Plum for users seeking a more lightweight typing experience. Conversely, for users desiring a heavier and more pronounced feel, particularly during key depression, the Plum switch presents a suitable choice with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Gold Brown falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Plum offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which can be advantageous for those seeking a faster response time, especially in gaming. However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt for some individuals who prefer a more substantial depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch fall into the category of neutral switches. This means that they have a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of purposes. The Gold Brown switches have a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches but not completely silent. On the other hand, the Plum switches have a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switches offer a mild and buttery typing experience. These switches have a gentle tactile bump that provides a satisfying feeling without being overwhelming. They are often described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Plum switches provide a mild typing experience with a unique characteristic. They are described as stepped switches, meaning that they have a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This makes them feel more mild compared to switches with a big bump.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and Kailh Plum tactile switches offer different but equally enjoyable typing experiences. The Gold Brown switches provide a balanced and mild feel with a slight and satisfying bump, while the Plum switches have a unique stepped feel with a more hefty weightiness. Both switches fall into the category of neutral switches in terms of sound, making them suitable for a wide range of purposes. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a balanced and gentle typing experience, either the Gold Brown or Plum switches would be a great choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. They offer a rounded sound profile that is softer compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Plum switches feel hefty without a huge tactile bump, making them unique and different from other tactile switches. The sound profile of both switches is described as neutral, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.

In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switches are described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished. They offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke. The Plum switches, on the other hand, are described as mild and stepped. They provide a more approachable typing experience with a mild tactile bump and the sensation of pre-travel and post-travel.

Considering the bottom out force, the Gold Brown switches have a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Plum switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams.

Ultimately, if you prefer a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a softer sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile experience with a heavier feel and a mild tactile bump, along with the sensation of pre-travel and post-travel, the Kailh Plum switches may be more suitable.

Remember to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and the specific requirements of your intended use (whether at home or work) when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more