TTC Gold Brown vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) 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 TTC Silent Bluish White. The Gold Brown switch is often praised for its balance, offering a slight but satisfying tactile bump while still maintaining a moderate weightiness. With a softer sound profile compared to many other switches, the Gold Browns strike a pleasant middle ground between noise and silence. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish Whites provide a medium-tactile feel that gives the typist a precise and comfortable typing experience. These switches are specifically designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for usage in office or shared living spaces. While these general characteristics offer some insight, diving deeper into the details will allow you to make the best decision based on your specific preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and TTC Silent Bluish White switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for its translucency, which is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound and visual appeal, both switches offer similar results.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Gold Brown and Silent Bluish White switches employ nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of the switch chosen, typing on both the Gold Brown and Silent Bluish White switches will elicit similar sound profiles.
It is worth noting that while the top and bottom housings of a switch contribute to the overall sound experience, they each have distinct roles. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing plays a more influential role in the sound produced when releasing a key. So, while the housings may differ, the qualities attributed to each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, creating a comprehensive sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Gold Brown requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 42 grams required by the Silent Bluish White. This difference means that the Gold Brown switch provides a slightly stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Similarly, the Gold Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Silent Bluish White has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience and who value the ability to type for extended periods of time, the Silent Bluish White would be the better choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This switch allows for a smoother and quicker keystroke activation with less force required. On the other hand, those who desire a more tactile and heavier typing experience would benefit from the Gold Brown switch, as it provides a stronger push feel and requires slightly more force to trigger keystrokes.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch. The decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether one prioritizes a lighter or heavier typing experience. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a tactile feedback, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of the preferred force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there is a slight difference in their measurements. The Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Brown falls into the more traditional range of 4.0mm, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.5 mm, which appeals to gamers seeking faster response times. While both switches provide a tactile feel, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White may be preferable for those looking for quick and precise keystrokes. However, if a more substantial keypress is desired, the Gold Brown with its longer travel distance would be the suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences and whether the priority is on a shorter, snappier keystroke or a deeper, more satisfying 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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a rounded sound profile that is generally much softer than most switches without being completely silent. It can be described as having a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch is designed to be as quiet as possible, making it perfect for office or shared living space use. It is described as producing a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch, with a muted sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
As for the feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience. It offers a gentle typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It can be considered an accented switch, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also described as having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TTC Silent Bluish White switch also offers a buttery and mild typing experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, with a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, it features a stepped feel, where the switch has two stages and allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Like the Gold Brown switch, it also has a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Silent Bluish White switches have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a mild and buttery typing experience, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke with reduced friction and smooth key travel. They are also both suitable for shared spaces due to their softer and quieter sound profiles. However, the Gold Brown switch has a slightly stronger tactile bump and a moderate weightiness, while the Silent Bluish White switch is specifically designed to be as quiet as possible for office or shared living space use. Overall, both switches offer a balanced and comfortable typing experience, with the Silent Bluish White being the quieter option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider.
If you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown switch is a great option. It offers a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches while still providing a tactile feedback.
On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience, especially in office or shared living spaces, the Silent Bluish White switch is the way to go. It offers a medium tactile feel with a satisfying level of resistance, while being designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of sound, the Gold Brown switch has a neutral profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Silent Bluish White switch, on the other hand, has a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
When it comes to feel, both switches provide a buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke. They also fall into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a balanced feel and a slight tactile bump, the Gold Brown switch is a great choice. If a quieter typing experience is important to you, the Silent Bluish White switch is the better option. Keep in mind your specific environment and use case when making your decision.
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