TTC Gold Brown vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock Sea Glass. The Gold Brown switch is best known for its balanced feel, with a slight and satisfying bump that provides tactile feedback. Its moderate weightiness adds to the typing experience, while still maintaining a softer sound profile compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock stands out with its captivating pastel colors. These switches offer a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness in their typing experience, thanks to their proprietary material blend. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, they surprisingly feel weightless and frictionless. The Sea Glass switches also have a uniquely hollow sound signature when typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities and appeal, making them great options to consider for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Durock Sea Glass switches differ in composition and sound profiles. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sea Glass has a top housing made of a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While both materials serve their purpose, the Gold Brown's polycarbonate delivers a more distinct and resonant sound compared to the Sea Glass's blend.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gold Brown utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Sea Glass incorporates a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This blend, like its top housing, creates a unique sound profile. Although details on the exact sound characteristics are not provided, it can be inferred that the blend alters the sound experience in a different manner than traditional nylon.
While the materials used for both the top and bottom housings of these switches differ from each other, they play different roles in determining the sound profile. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing contributes more to the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, it is evident that both switches prioritize delivering a pleasant sound experience, albeit through distinct material compositions.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches fall under the medium force category, providing a balanced typing experience. The Gold Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Sea Glass has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams with a slightly lower bottom out force of 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sea Glass switch might be the preferred choice. Its lower actuation force allows for a more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for typing during extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This option suits individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel and desire a more satisfying keystroke sensation.
Overall, both switches provide a medium-level force, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience. If a user desires a lighter option, the Sea Glass switch offers a slightly lower actuation force. Meanwhile, those seeking a slightly heavier typing feel may opt for the Gold Brown switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Glass has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches offer a relatively similar experience with their close travel distances, there is a slight distinction between the two. The Gold Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, making it the more suitable choice for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Sea Glass provides a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice of switch depends on personal preference - those who enjoy a hearty depth may opt for the TTC Gold Brown, while individuals prioritizing quick responses may gravitate towards the Durock Sea Glass. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer a reliable and comfortable 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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
The sound profile of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is well-balanced, providing a satisfying bump without being too loud. It has a rounded sound that is softer than most switches, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch produces a hollow sound signature. This unique sound is a result of the switch's proprietary material blend, which also gives it a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness. The sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience. It falls within the safe middle ground zone, providing a gentle and approachable typing sensation. The switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a noticeable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a mild and frictionless typing experience. It has a feathery feel, requiring little exertion and reducing finger fatigue. The switch is easy-to-press and offers low-impact typing, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer distinctive qualities. The Gold Brown switch has a balanced sound profile and a mild, buttery feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Its polished finish provides smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series stands out with its captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience. The switch's hollow sound signature, dryness, and airiness create a distinct typing experience, while its frictionless nature and feathery feel make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a balanced sound and a smooth typing experience, the Gold Brown switch would be a suitable option. However, if you are attracted to pastel colors and desire a typing experience that is dry, wisp, and airy, the Sea Glass switch series would be worth exploring. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are seeking a well-balanced and versatile switch, the Gold Brown is an excellent choice. With a moderate actuation force and a slightly tactile bump, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience without being too overwhelming. Additionally, the Gold Browns offer a rounded sound profile that is softer than many other switches, making them suitable for various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and lightweight switch, the Durock Sea Glass is worth considering. These switches boast an impressively low bottom-out force of 62 grams, but don't let that fool you – their frictionless nature delivers a weightless typing experience. With a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, typing on the Sea Glass switches offers a truly unique sensation. Furthermore, the Sea Glass switches produce a hollow sound signature that adds to their charm.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize a balanced and moderate experience (Gold Brown) or a lightweight and distinctive feel (Sea Glass). Consider your typing preferences, environment, and personal style to determine which switch will provide the most satisfying and enjoyable keyboarding experience for you.
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