TTC Gold Brown vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are two popular options to consider: the TTC Gold Brown and the TTC Speed Silver. The Gold Browns are known for being balanced, offering a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. Additionally, these switches have a softer sound profile compared to most switches, although they are not completely silent. On the other hand, the Speed Silvers are perfect for those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches have a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. What sets them apart is their reduced travel distance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. Both switches fall in the 'Neutral' and 'Mild' categories, but the Gold Brown is also described as 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished', while the Speed Silver is described as simply 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Speed Silver switches are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the translucency needed for RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with excellent sound quality and the ability to showcase RGB lighting, both the Gold Brown and Speed Silver would provide similar results.
However, there is a difference in the bottom housing material between the two switches. The Gold Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Speed Silver features the same nylon material for its bottom housing. Nylon is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the Gold Brown switch may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the Speed Silver due to the variation in bottom housing material.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switch when pressed, the bottom housing material plays a significant role. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel that you experience when pressing down on the switch. However, the top housing material also contributes to the sound when you let go of a key. So while the Gold Brown and Speed Silver may have different bottom housing materials, the top housing's polycarbonate composition ensures that both switches deliver a clear and resonant sound profile when keys are released.
In summary, both the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Speed Silver switches share a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the sound profile and facilitates RGB lighting. The Gold Brown distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, both switches will deliver satisfying sound profiles when keys are released due to their top housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference on the typing experience and whether RGB lighting is a priority.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we can see some distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Speed Silver requires a lighter touch with an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium forces, which would provide a satisfactory typing experience for most users. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gold Brown requires a slightly heavier force of 63 grams, while the Speed Silver is lighter at 55 grams. This means that the Gold Brown provides a more pronounced and substantial feel when fully pressing down the keys, while the Speed Silver offers a more gentle and lighter touch.
Considering the weight of these switches is essential, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, like the Speed Silver, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel and enjoy the sensation of a stronger push when typing may gravitate towards the Gold Brown or switches with heavier forces. It is worth noting that while the Gold Brown requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out, the difference between the two forces is minimal.
In essence, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience one will have with either the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. While the Gold Brown may provide a slightly more pronounced and tactile feel with its medium actuation force of 55 grams and heavier bottom out force of 63 grams, the Speed Silver offers a lighter touch with its actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with some favoring a lighter typing experience and others seeking a more substantial and tactile feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and TTC Speed Silver linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth. On the other hand, the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers tend to lean towards switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Speed Silver would be the preferable option. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Gold Brown and its longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Speed Silver switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate level of actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound while typing. 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. Therefore, while the description suggests a neutral sound profile for both switches, the actual sound produced may vary depending on these additional factors.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a mild typing experience. It is described as having a satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The Gold Brown switch is also characterized as having a rounded sound profile, which is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch is described as buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a mild typing experience as well. It is described as having a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. The Speed Silver switch is also referred to as polished, suggesting a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and TTC Speed Silver switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They are both described as having a neutral sound profile and providing a mild typing experience. The differences lie in the specific characteristics of each switch. The Gold Brown switch has a satisfying bump, a moderate weightiness, and a rounded sound profile, while the Speed Silver switch has a reduced travel distance, light-medium resistance, and a pristine sound profile. Overall, both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work to provide a fast and precise typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you value a balanced typing experience with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a rounded and softer sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users at home or work. With descriptors such as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, the Gold Brown provides a gentle and polished typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the perfect fit. With its reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. Along with a light-medium level of resistance, the Speed Silver offers a pristine sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes and skill levels. Similarly, being described as mild and polished, these switches provide a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Brown and the Speed Silver comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a balanced feel and a rounded sound profile, go for the Gold Brown. However, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the Speed Silver linear switch is your best bet. Whichever switch you choose, both the Gold Brown and the Speed Silver offer high-quality options that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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