TTC Gold Pink vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and Huano Grape Orange both offer distinct advantages for users seeking a linear switch experience. The Gold Pink is celebrated for its ultra-light 37g actuation force, providing a fast and effortless typing experience that caters to rapid typists and gamers alike. Its subtle clacky sound adds a satisfying auditory feedback that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Grape Orange also excels with its ultra-light 40g actuation force, ensuring a smooth and fatigue-free typing experience ideal for long hours of work or play. While both switches prioritize a comfortable typing feel, the Gold Pink leans into a lively and polished responsiveness, whereas the Grape Orange emphasizes a streamlined approach for prolonged use. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and Huano Grape Orange switches share a notable similarity in their top housing, which is constructed from polycarbonate material. This choice of housing results in a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, whether in the context of the Gold Pink or the Grape Orange. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity of the sound generated, creating a more resonant audio experience upon keypress. Both switches leverage the translucency of polycarbonate, making it an optimal choice for RGB lighting effects, as it allows lighting to shine through more effectively, contributing to the overall aesthetic of a keyboard.
In contrast, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a fuller and deeper sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer plastic nature, which absorbs sound more efficiently than harder plastics like polycarbonate. As a result, this material choice leads to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This similarity in bottom housing design ensures that both the Gold Pink and Grape Orange switches maintain a classic and enduring typing feel, grounded in the well-respected properties of nylon, which has long been recognized as a staple material in switch design.
While the TTC Gold Pink and Huano Grape Orange may seem equivalent in many respects, it is essential to recognize the impact of their housing materials on the overall sound experience. The synergy between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom contributes to a balanced audio spectrum that highlights the clarity of high frequencies while grounding it with the warmth of lower tones. Users can expect a distinctive feel and auditory feedback that showcases the strengths of both materials, allowing for a satisfying typing experience whether they are using the Gold Pink or the Grape Orange switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, both present themselves as relatively light options but show some differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter choice of the two, while the Grape Orange requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that for users who prefer less resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Gold Pink may be the more suitable option, providing a smoother experience. In contrast, those who enjoy a firmer feel may lean towards the Grape Orange, which offers a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are light, but the Gold Pink is the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Gold Pink features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Grape Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Gold Pink switch offers a deeper feel during key presses, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Grape Orange's shorter travel distance caters to those who prioritize faster response times, making it a potentially better option for gamers who require quick and precise key actions. Ultimately, if you value deeper key engagement, the Gold Pink is the more suitable choice, whereas the Grape Orange is ideal for those who lean towards a more responsive feel with quicker actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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
The sound of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is characterized as clacky, providing an audible feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy noticeable sound during their keystrokes. This auditory feedback can be particularly appealing for gamers and typists who appreciate a lively sound profile. In contrast, the sound qualities of the Huano Grape Orange switch are not explicitly described, leaving room for speculation on their acoustic performance. However, it is important to note that sound will largely depend on the keyboard frame and keycap material, meaning both switches could potentially produce varied auditory experiences based on the setup used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch delivers a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. Its smooth and fluid keystrokes allow for an effortless typing sensation, making it suitable for extended use. The light actuation force of 37g contributes to reduced finger fatigue, making it a comfortable choice for rapid typing or gaming over long periods. In contrast, details regarding the Grape Orange's feel are not provided. However, given that it also emphasizes a lightweight actuation force at 40g, it can be inferred that it may offer a similarly easy typing experience, though the exact tactile sensation remains unknown.
In summary, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch excels in delivering a light and lively typing experience, marked by its clacky sound and various smooth feel descriptors. The Huano Grape Orange's advantages lie in its ultra-low actuation force well-suited for extensive typing sessions, though its sound and feel specifics are less defined. While both switches promise an effortless typing experience, the Gold Pink stands out with its defined auditory feedback and rich sensory descriptions. If you're looking for a vibrant type feel and sound, the Gold Pink is a strong contender; if you're after a potentially softer experience with less known attributes, the Grape Orange could be worth exploring.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a fast, light, and lively typing experience—particularly for rapid typing or gaming—the Gold Pink would be your best bet. With its impressively low 37g actuation force and feathery, polished feel, this switch offers minimal resistance and can help reduce finger fatigue during extended use. Its mildly clacky sound also adds a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists enjoy. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a bit more resistance while still maintaining a lightweight feel, the Grape Orange, with its 40g actuation force, may suit you better. It excels in prolonged typing sessions, providing a comfortable experience without the worry of overshooting keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you value speed and liveliness over a slightly more substantial typing feel, so consider your typical keyboard use—whether for gaming, professional tasks, or casual typing—before making a decision.