TTC Gold Pink vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and TTC Iron both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Gold Pink stands out for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who value speed and ease in typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Iron impresses with its pronounced clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each press. While the Gold Pink offers a lively typing experience, the Iron boasts buttery smooth travel for precision and pleasure in every keystroke. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Pink and the TTC Iron feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Iron's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. Additionally, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Iron's POM bottom housing provides a unique sound that is also on the deeper side.
While both the Gold Pink and the Iron have different top and bottom housing materials, they each bring their own qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing is known for its stiffer nature, leading to a clear and resonant sound when letting go of a key, while the Iron's POM top housing offers a more muted sound. In terms of bottom housing impact, the Gold Pink's nylon housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out, compared to the Iron's POM bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the TTC Iron play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate and nylon materials used in the Gold Pink create a sharper and fuller sound, while the POM housing of the Iron offers a more muted and deeper sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide unique and pleasing sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Pink and the Iron will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound experience.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is clear that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Iron's 41 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gold Pink requires 45 grams of force, while the Iron needs 50 grams, giving the Gold Pink a lighter feel overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Pink would be the better choice, as it provides a smoother and easier keystroke. On the other hand, the Iron switch offers a slightly heavier feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Iron switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Pink being on the slightly longer side. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, so the Iron switch may be more favorable in that aspect. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Gold Pink switch with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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, the Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound that adds a satisfying level of feedback to typing. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch also provides a pronounced clacky sound signature, enhancing the overall typing experience with a distinct sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can contribute to a more immersive typing session, although the final sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with light actuation force. In contrast, the Iron switch is characterized as easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing feel, with the Gold Pink focusing on a lighter touch and smooth sensation, while the Iron emphasizes effortless key presses and low-impact typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and TTC Iron linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to individuals with different preferences in typing experiences. Whether you prefer a light and lively typing sensation with clacky feedback (Gold Pink) or a swift and buttery smooth typing experience with pronounced sound (Iron), both switches provide options for enthusiasts and daily users alike. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal typing style and preferences, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience with fast and effortless key presses, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch with its 37g actuation force is the way to go. It is perfect for rapid typing or gaming, offering a satisfying level of feedback with a clacky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced clacky sound signature with buttery smooth travel and remarkable light actuation for precision and pleasure in every keystroke, the TTC Iron linear switch is the one for you. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should be based on your preference for a slightly lighter or slightly heavier bottom out force, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that align with your typing style and preferences.
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