TTC Gold Brown vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile offer unique qualities and features that may appeal to different preferences. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced nature, with a slight and satisfying tactile bump. They have a moderate weightiness and a softer sound profile compared to most switches. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches from Wuque Studio provide a remarkable and pronounced tactile bump, making each keystroke an engaging and immersive journey. With a tactile force of 70g, typing on these switches offers satisfying resistance. Additionally, the nylon housings contribute to a "thocky" resonance, providing a captivating sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ when it comes to the top housing. The Gold Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect distinct sound characteristics from both switches based on their top housing material.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Brown and the WS Heavy Tactile share the same material - nylon. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the effect it has on the top housing. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether it's the Gold Brown or the WS Heavy Tactile, users can expect a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the bottom housing of a switch has a stronger influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. With the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a switch that provides a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, with a deeper and fuller sound when the key is released. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top and bottom housings will result in a switch that offers a rounder and duller sound when pressed and released. Despite their differences, both switches provide distinct and satisfying sound profiles due to their unique combination of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile only needs 45 grams. This means that the Gold Brown switch is relatively heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, which is lighter in both aspects.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch as it can affect the typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue and allows for extended use, making it ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial and pronounced keystroke may lean towards switches with heavier forces.
Although the actuation force for the WS Heavy Tactile switch is unavailable, it can be inferred that it is lighter than the Gold Brown since its bottom out force is lower. Therefore, for individuals seeking a lighter switch with a smoother typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile may be a suitable choice. However, if a slightly heavier and more tactile typing experience is desired, the Gold Brown would be the better option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Gold Brown's travel distance of 4 mm falls within the range of a traditional travel distance, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance provides a more immediate tactile feedback. However, it is essential to consider personal preferences, as a shorter travel distance may feel abrupt to some individuals who prefer a more substantial depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for either a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more substantial 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 TTC Gold Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer distinct qualities. The Gold Brown switch has a rounded sound profile, which is generally much softer than most switches without being completely silent. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more neutral sound experience. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, creating a more immersive auditory experience. If you enjoy a keyboard with a rich and bassy sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a suitable choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable tactile feedback that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The smooth and fluid keystroke makes typing seamless, effortless, and uniform. Additionally, the switch is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. With its polished finish, the Gold Brown switch reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more pronounced and invigorating feel. With a tactile force of 70g, each keystroke is imbued with satisfying resistance, making typing an engaging and immersive journey. This switch is described as accented as well, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The WS Heavy Tactile switch also offers a snappy and reactive feel, thanks to its high feedback intensity. This provides a distinct and satisfying tactile bump with every keypress. Furthermore, it is described as bouncy, giving keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown switch offers a balanced and gentle tactile experience with a rounded sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a more pronounced and invigorating feel with a clacky and resonant sound profile. Depending on your preferences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also affect the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a satisfying tactile bump, the TTC Gold Brown switches are a great choice. They provide a softer sound profile and have a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and immersive tactile experience, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches are the way to go. With a tactile force of 70 grams, these switches offer a satisfying resistance and a profound tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. The WS Heavy Tactile switches also provide a "thocky" sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the Gold Brown switches are ideal for those seeking a balanced switch, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches cater to those who desire a more intense and engaging tactile feedback. Consider your preferences and typing style to determine which switch best suits your needs.
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