TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Type A offer two distinct experiences for users. On one hand, the Gold Browns are praised for their balanced nature, providing a slight but satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. Their rounded sound profile is softer compared to most switches, making them a popular choice for those who want a tactile typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A stands out for its innovative design featured in Sillyworks' "Project Rehash." This switch offers a unique compromise for users seeking a medium-weight option, with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While both switches fall under the category of neutral, the Gold Browns are described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, while the Type A is categorized as neutral and subdued. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Type A switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing is better for producing a clear and resonant sound with RGB lighting, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a more rounded and dull sound quality.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Gold Brown and Type A switches use nylon materials. This means that they share the qualities of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is influenced by the nylon material, resulting in a consistent sound experience when compared between the two switches. However, the differences in their top housings will still create distinct sound profiles when pressing down on the keys and letting go.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Type A switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the differing top housing materials give each switch a unique sound profile. The Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting and a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more subdued typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the desired sound outcome, users can choose between the two switches based on their housing material composition.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of force, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. The Gold Brown provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier force requirements, while the Type A offers a lighter touch, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distance plays a significant role in determining the typing experience. With a travel distance of 4 mm, both switches offer a satisfying amount of keypress feedback and actuation depth. The tactile bump in the Gold Brown switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the linear feel of the Type A switch. Despite their slight differences in feel, their equal travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress actuation and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for tactile feedback rather than the travel distance itself.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 Gold Brown and the Gateron Type A switches fall under the neutral category, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the Type A offers a more subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed. This may be preferred by those seeking a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, offering a gentle, smooth, and refined typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not provided.
Overall, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a balanced sound profile and a slightly weighted feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a deeper sound and potentially smoother typing experience, the Gateron Type A switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a balanced switch with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, the Type A could be the better option. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various settings and skill levels. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what specific typing experience you are seeking.
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