TTC Gold Brown vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Duck are two popular options to consider. The Gold Brown switches are often praised for their balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump while offering a moderate weightiness. Additionally, these switches have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most without being completely silent, making them suitable for both work and play. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. If you prefer a gentler tactility while typing, the Duck switches might be the ideal choice for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch that suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is also beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through the switch housing. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic advantages when comparing these two switches.
However, the bottom housing material differs between the Gold Brown and the Duck. The Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance in the switch's sound. Therefore, when pressing down on these switches, users will experience the qualities of the bottom housing, which will have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, while the top housings of the Gold Brown and the Duck are the same and share similar characteristics, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck results in a sharper and crisper sound. The choice of housing materials in these switches provides users with options to suit their preferred sound profiles and typing experiences. Additionally, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, allowing for enhanced RGB lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a medium level of actuation force. The Gold Brown requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Gold Brown measuring at a slightly heavier 63 grams compared to the Duck's 58 grams.
Considerations of weight are important as they can impact typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Gold Brown, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Duck or other options with heavier actuation forces.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Gold Brown is lighter than that of the Duck, both switches provide a similar medium level of actuation force. The bottom out force of the Gold Brown is slightly heavier than that of the Duck. Therefore, individuals seeking a specific typing experience can make their choice based on these factors.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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, both the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Duck switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound level. As with any switch, the actual sound experienced may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. However, based on their descriptions, both switches can be considered suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience. The Gold Brown switch is described as mild and buttery, indicating that it provides a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. It also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Duck switch is also mild and buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. It also has a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches fall under the mild and buttery categories, which suggest a gentle and approachable typing feel for most users.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Duck switches offer a balanced and subtle tactile typing experience. While the Gold Brown has a slightly more weighty feel and a rounded sound profile, the Duck switch provides a cleaner and crispier sound. However, it is important to note that these subjective qualities can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a pleasant typing experience, both the Gold Brown and the Duck switches can provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a well-balanced tactile switch with a satisfying bump and moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown switches would be a great choice for you. They offer a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches are perfect. They have a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, both switches offer a mild typing experience and a buttery, polished feel, providing a smooth and enjoyable keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and SP-Star Duck switches depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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