TTC Gold Brown vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Brown and Jwick Taro are both tactile switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Gold Brown switches are best known for their balanced feel, featuring a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. They also produce a softer sound profile compared to most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks. Both switches fall under the neutral and buttery categories, offering a smooth keypress experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Taro both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar qualities when it comes to sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that allows for clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound experience and visual appeal due to their polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown and Taro switches feature nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Compared to harder plastics, nylon is relatively softer and has better sound absorption properties, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound, as the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a deeper sound profile.
When it comes to pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that both the Gold Brown and Taro switches will offer a similar typing experience when it comes to the sensation of pressing a key. However, the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when you let go of a key, so there might be slight differences in sound between the two switches at the moment of key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are a few differences to note. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which places it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Taro's actuation force is unavailable, which means we do not have specific information on this aspect. However, it does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.
In terms of weight, the Gold Brown is lighter than the Taro switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Gold Brown more suitable, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This makes it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which could provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel.
While we don't have the specific actuation force of the Taro switch, it is worth noting that generally, switches with higher bottom out forces tend to require a heavier actuation force as well. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the Taro switch might have a higher actuation force than the Gold Brown due to its heavier bottom out force.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is lighter and has specific actuation and bottom out forces in the medium range. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is slightly heavier, with a medium-heavy bottom out force and an unknown actuation force. Depending on individual preference, users can choose between the lighter and medium options or go for the heavier and medium-heavy option to achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Gold Brown has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Taro has a travel distance of 3.7mm. Although the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. 4.0mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, while 3.7mm is slightly shallower. For those who prioritize faster response times, the Taro with its shorter travel distance may be preferred, especially by gamers. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Gold Brown's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 the Jwick Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate level of sound. The Gold Brown switches have a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, while the Taro switches create acute and crisp clacks. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches 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, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic implies a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The buttery quality suggests a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing seamless and effortless typing sensations. The accented feature describes a medium tactile switch that offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Lastly, the polished attribute indicates a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches provide a buttery and stepped typing experience. The buttery characteristic implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience similar to the Gold Brown switches. The stepped feature refers to switches that feel like they have two stages, offering mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
Based on the available information, both switches exhibit similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have neutral sound profiles and provide a buttery typing experience. However, the Gold Brown switches have additional characteristics such as being mild, accented, and polished, which may provide a more balanced and refined typing experience. If you are looking for a cozy and comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility, either switch can be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a balanced and satisfying typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice. With its moderate bottom out force of 63 grams, you can expect a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The Gold Brown switches also have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches without being completely silent. In terms of sound and feel, the Gold Brown switches are described as neutral, mild, buttery, accented, and polished, providing a gentle and enjoyable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and medium-level of tactility, along with acute and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, the Taro switches offer a slightly heavier feel compared to the Gold Brown switches. In terms of sound and feel, the Taro switches are also described as neutral and buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and Jwick Taro switches depends on your personal preference for the tactile feedback and weight of the switch. Both switches are 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. Consider your preferences in terms of bump intensity and weightiness, as well as the specific typing experience you desire, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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