TTC Gold Brown vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Wine Red are two popular options with unique characteristics. The Gold Brown switches are often described as balanced, offering a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. These switches have a softer sound profile compared to most switches, while still maintaining a noticeable tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light typing experience along with a deep and rich sound profile. These switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics. Both switches have their own appeal, providing different typing experiences to suit individual preferences. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision on which one is best suited for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
44g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Wine Red switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to incorporate RGB lighting in their switch setup.
However, a significant contrast arises in the bottom housing materials of these switches. The Gold Brown employs nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, it has the ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon typing. On the other hand, the Wine Red utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing, mirroring its impact on the overall sound profile of the switch.
It is important to note that the split between top and bottom housings also affects the switch's qualities. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing plays a more prominent role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the TTC Gold Brown and KTT Wine Red switches offer unique characteristics, catering to individuals' preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Wine Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 44 grams. Both switches fall within the medium force range, but the Wine Red offers a slightly lighter touch for those who prefer a less resistant keystroke.
In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires a force of 63 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force. On the other hand, the Wine Red has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is the same as its actuation force. This means that the Wine Red provides a consistent force throughout the entire keystroke, while the Gold Brown requires a slightly stronger push to fully bottom out.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Wine Red switch more suitable. Its lower actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it desirable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience and a greater push feel might lean towards the Gold Brown switch. Although both switches fall within the medium range, the Gold Brown offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more solid and satisfying keystroke for individuals who prefer that sensation.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Wine Red linear switch. The Gold Brown is the heavier option, offering a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience. Meanwhile, the Wine Red presents a lighter touch, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount 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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
When it comes to sound, the Gold Brown switch has a neutral sound profile that is generally much softer than most switches without being completely silent. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a bassy sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a low-pitched tone, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. It falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. It can be described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The switch has accentuated tactility, providing a noticeable bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Wine Red switch.
Based on the available information, the Gold Brown switches seem to offer a balanced and satisfying typing experience with a moderate weightiness, gentle tactile bump, and a softer sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches provide a pillowy light feel with a deep and rich sound profile, but there is limited information on their tactile characteristics. It is important to consider personal preferences and intended use when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are a few factors to consider.
The Gold Brown switch is known for its balanced nature, providing a slight and satisfying tactile bump along with a moderate weightiness. It also offers a rounded and softer sound profile, making it suitable for various environments such as home or work. If you prefer a switch that offers a middle-ground typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes, the Gold Brown is a great choice.
On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a pillowy light type feel and a deep and rich sound profile. It is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. If you appreciate a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses, the Wine Red switch would be a preferred option.
Ultimately, if you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown switch would be the way to go. However, if you value a pillowy light feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red switch would be a better fit. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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