TTC Gold Brown vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but they have their own unique characteristics. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced feel, with a slight bump and moderate weightiness. They have a softer sound profile compared to most switches, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, making them a versatile option for users looking for a Goldilocks typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard.
On the other hand, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer. This material choice influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a different tactile experience compared to the top housing.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The split in housing materials allows users to feel the qualities of the bottom housing when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in keyboard typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Gold Brown has a slightly higher actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown at 63 grams is higher than the Violet Gold Pro's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Gold Brown will require a bit more pressure to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Violet Gold Pro. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro may be the better choice, as it has a lower actuation force. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gold Brown for its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier feel is desired.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gold Brown has a slightly longer distance compared to the Violet Gold Pro. The difference is minimal, but it may be noticeable to those who are sensitive to key travel distances. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown being on the slightly longer side. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing, the TTC Gold Brown may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their close travel distances.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and user preferences. While the Gold Brown may offer a slightly softer sound overall, the differences are minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, the sound of these switches will also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used, so personal testing is always recommended for the best assessment.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown is praised for its mild and buttery typing experience, offering a comfortable and approachable tactile feel that falls in the middle ground of tactility. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is described as having a stepped tactile feel, providing a unique sensation of two-stage feedback during key presses. While the Gold Brown emphasizes a smoother and refined typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro introduces a more distinct tactile response for users who prefer a bit more feedback during typing sessions. Both switches aim to provide a balanced typing experience overall, with slight variations in tactility to cater to different user preferences.
Considering the similarities in sound and the slight differences in feel between the TTC Gold Brown and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches, users can expect comparable results in terms of overall typing experience. Whether you opt for the slightly softer and smoother feel of the Gold Brown or the stepped tactile sensation of the Violet Gold Pro, both switches offer a balanced and enjoyable tactile experience suitable for a wide range of typing tasks. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the ideal choice for individual users, so experimenting with both options may be the best way to find the perfect fit for your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a moderate weightiness and a slight, satisfying bump, the Gold Brown may be the switch for you. Its rounded sound profile and buttery feel make it a versatile option suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a light touch with medium tactility and a neutral sound signature, the Violet Gold Pro could be your ideal choice. Its stepped feel offers a unique typing sensation with a gentle yet noticeable tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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