TTC Gold Pink vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a new mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 can be a tough decision. The Gold Pink is a linear switch known for its 37g actuation force, offering a light and effortless typing experience perfect for fast typists and gamers. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3, another linear switch, boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a silky and seamless typing sensation. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, both switches feature a top housing made of polycarbonate. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches, making them ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting in these switches, adding a customizable aesthetic element to the typing experience.
However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Gold Pink boasts a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which continues the trend of a sharper and crisper sound profile. This consistency in material throughout the switch's housing may lead to a more cohesive typing experience overall.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The split between the housing materials in these switches allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the qualities of the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the sharper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Gold Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 switch has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Gold Pink switch is lighter in terms of pressure required to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with lighter switches being suitable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the TTC Gold Pink linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Pink switch provides a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Lightning Silver V3. While both switches fall within the traditional travel distance range, the Gold Pink offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 may appeal to gamers and those seeking faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 is known for its clacky sound, providing a satisfying level of feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and snappy experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Pink leaning towards a lighter and livelier sound, while the Lightning Silver V3 provides a more vibrant and high-pitched tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink linear switch is praised for its buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth, effortless, and uniform keystroke sensation that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences that cater to users who value different levels of smoothness and feedback in their typing.
Overall, the TTC Gold Pink and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Pink excels in providing a light and lively typing experience with its clacky sound and buttery feel, the Lightning Silver V3 stands out with its high-pitched sound and silky smooth typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and RGB illumination, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing or gaming setup. Remember, the ultimate typing experience also depends on factors such as keycap material, keyboard build quality, and personal typing habits.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing and gaming. If you prefer a light and lively typing experience with a low actuation force, the Gold Pink switch is the way to go. It offers a fast and effortless typing experience with a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound signature with a silky and seamless typing experience, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is the better choice. It provides a vibrant touch to your keyboard setup and enhances RGB illumination. Both switches have their unique features and characteristics, so choose based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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