TTC Gold Pink vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Pink and the Kailh BCP both stand out as compelling options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Pink is celebrated for its remarkably light 37g actuation force, providing a fast and effortless typing experience ideal for rapid typists and gamers alike. Its buttery, mild, and subtle feel, combined with a satisfying clack, makes any keystroke feel lively and engaging. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switches take a different approach by reimagining the iconic Black Cherry Pie design, emphasizing a bouncy and creamy tactile feedback. With a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, the BCP is perfect for those seeking a playful typing experience without the hassle of switch disassembly. While both switches excel in delivering a lively auditory experience, the choice ultimately comes down to individual preference regarding actuation force and tactile feedback. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Kailh BCP switches utilize contrasting materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Gold Pink's top housing is constructed from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material's rigidity allows for enhanced resonance, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency makes it a popular choice for RGB lighting applications, as the light can pass through and create striking visual effects. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics and ability to absorb sound. This softness results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, creating a more muted and rounded auditory experience compared to the Gold Pink.
On the bottom housing front, both the TTC Gold Pink and Kailh BCP share a commonality: both are made from nylon. The nylon construction in both switches leads to a similar sound quality, with a richer and more resonant typing experience. As mentioned, nylon's softer characteristics contribute to a duller bottom-out sound and enhance the overall typing feel. Therefore, while the top housings produce contrasting sound profiles—sharper for the Gold Pink and rounder for the BCP—the bottom housings in both switches offer a depth of sound that remains consistent. This shared aspect of nylon in the bottom housing helps both switches deliver a satisfying thyaptic feedback, despite their differing top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gold Pink, juxtaposed with the nylon top housing of the Kailh BCP, showcases how diverse materials can influence the user experience in mechanical switches. The polycarbonate top generates a distinctive sound profile that caters to users who favor clarity and brightness, while the nylon top in the BCP appeals to those who value a deeper, more lush sound. Yet, the similarity in nylon bottom housings means that both switches can provide satisfying and full acoustic experiences, underlining how housing materials can be harmoniously blended to create unique tactile sensations while retaining familiar depth in sound. Thus, for those seeking specific auditory qualities, the contrasting top housings allow for personalized choices without drastically compromising the overall sound experience of nylon bottoms.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, appealing to those who favor a more robust and substantial typing experience. While the Gold Pink is designed for comfort and prolonged use, the BCP’s medium-heavy resistance provides a firmer feedback that some users might prefer. Thus, for individuals seeking ease and less fatigue, the TTC Gold Pink is the ideal choice, whereas those who enjoy a more tactile push should consider the Kailh BCP switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Gold Pink switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional depth associated with switch designs and offers a satisfying tactile feel for users who prefer a more pronounced key press. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to gamers and those who favor quicker response times. This shorter distance allows for faster key actuation, which can enhance performance in fast-paced scenarios. Therefore, the Gold Pink has the longer travel distance, making it a better option for users who enjoy a more substantial keypress, while the BCP offers a modern, responsive choice for those who prefer a 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 Pink linear switch delivers a sharp and clacky auditory experience characterized by its crispness and brightness. This lively sound enhances the feedback of each keystroke, making it particularly satisfying for users who appreciate an audible response while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch also features a clacky sound profile. With its signature sharp and snappy characteristics, it is similarly satisfying, producing a percussive auditory cue that adds an element of excitement to the typing experience. Both switches provide an engaging sound, making them enjoyable for typing tasks, though individual preferences may vary depending on the keyboard setup and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the distinctions between the two switches become more pronounced. The Gold Pink is noted for its effortless typing experience, showcasing a buttery smoothness combined with a mild and polished sensation. This results in a seamless, gentle key travel that is approachable for users, catering to those who prefer a smooth and refined typing feel. Conversely, the Kailh BCP switch is recognized for its uniquely bouncy and creamy texture. This switch offers an elastic feedback that creates a lively, spring-like rebound during use, while maintaining a buttery smoothness that allows users to glide effortlessly over the keys. Both switches, while different in their tactile feedback, provide pleasant experiences that can cater to different typing styles.
In summary, both the TTC Gold Pink and Kailh BCP linear switches offer enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences, though they differ in certain qualities. The Gold Pink excels in providing a clacky sound and a smooth, mild feel, while the BCP focuses on a bouncy, creamy sensation with a similarly engaging sound profile. Depending on your personal preferences for typing feedback and sound, either switch could serve you well, but the differences in feel might sway your decision based on your typing habits.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Pink and the Kailh BCP linear switches will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight and responsive experience, particularly for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink switches are an excellent choice. With their low actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, you'll benefit from a smooth and lively keystroke that makes long sessions feel effortless. Their mild, buttery feel and subtle sound profile also make them suitable for more quiet environments where you don't want to disturb others. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial feel and a tactile feedback experience, the Kailh BCP switches offer a medium-heavy resistance of 63.5 grams that provides a poppy and bouncy sensation. This makes them ideal for users who appreciate a bit more weight in their keystrokes and enjoy a clacky sound that adds character to their typing experience. In essence, choose the Gold Pink for a light, fast experience and the BCP for a robust, tactile feel, ensuring your mechanical keyboard perfectly suits your needs.
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