TTC Gold Pink vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Orange stand out as intriguing options for users seeking a superior typing experience. The Gold Pink, renowned for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, caters to those who prioritize speed and agility, making it particularly appealing for rapid typing or intense gaming sessions. Its buttery and polished feel, combined with a satisfying clacky sound, offers a delightful auditory feedback that enhances the overall experience. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switches aim to reintroduce the beloved original MX Orange switches with modern enhancements, appealing to typists who might appreciate a reliable switch that has been thoughtfully refined over time. While both options provide a linear switch experience, the Gold Pink excels in providing a nimble, lively touch, while the MX Orange balances nostalgia with durability. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Pink and Cherry MX Orange switches present distinct characteristics that affect their acoustic profiles and overall user experience. The TTC Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Its translucency allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of keyboards equipped with these switches. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that produces a duller and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while the TTC Gold Pink’s polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and resonance, the Cherry MX Orange’s nylon presents a more muted sound quality, showcasing how different materials can fundamentally alter a switch’s auditory characteristics.
When examining the bottom housings, both the TTC Gold Pink and Cherry MX Orange utilize nylon material, a classic choice in switch construction. This shared aspect means that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile at the bottom-out, where the bottom housing plays a significant role. The nylon emits a sound that is less harsh and more rounded compared to stiffer materials, making the bottoming-out experience for both switches similarly pleasant. As the core material remains consistent, users can expect comparable results in sound profile depth on this part of the switch, effectively contributing to a richer typing experience.
In terms of synthesizing the overall sound profile from both switches, the differences between the top housings will yield distinct auditory outcomes while their bottom housings align in material. The TTC Gold Pink's polycarbonate top will ensure clarity during key release, enhancing the acute auditory feedback that typists often prefer, while the Cherry MX Orange, with its nylon top, will promote a softer sound profile. The divide between the two materials creates a complex interplay in tactile feedback and auditory response; users may favor the Gold Pink for articulate sound and aesthetics or lean towards the MX Orange for comfort in sound absorption and a plush typing feel. Thus, while both switches can offer satisfying results in certain aspects, their divergent top housing materials lead to unique experiences that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Gold Pink features a light actuation force of 37 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the MX Orange has a noticeably heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This difference indicates that the Gold Pink is better for users who prefer a softer touch, whereas the MX Orange caters to those seeking a more substantial push feel. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Gold Pink is 45 grams, which also contributes to its lighter overall feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange's bottom out force is unspecified, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect. Overall, the Gold Pink is the lighter option, ideal for comfort during long use, while the MX Orange is heavier, appealing to those who favor a strong tactile experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, making their actuation distance equal. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, resulting in a consistent typing experience across both options. Since their travel distances match, those who prefer the tactile feedback and performance of these switches will likely achieve similar results in terms of key actuation and keystroke 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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 TTC Gold Pink linear switch is known for its clacky sound, offering a lively auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. This lively sound contributes to the dynamic feel of the switch, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of acoustic feedback during their typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not have a defined sound profile in the provided information, leaving its auditory characteristics unspecified. However, sound can often be influenced by the construction of the keyboard and the keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Pink offers a range of descriptors that highlight its characteristics. The switch is buttery smooth, allowing for a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Its feathery actuation makes it exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. The mild nature of the switch ensures a gentle typing experience, making it approachable for users who may not enjoy overly stiff or aggressive switches. Additionally, the polished finish indicates a refined typing sensation with reduced friction. The Cherry MX Orange's feel is not detailed in the information provided, creating a gap in comparison.
Taking into account the available information, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch stands out for its light actuation force and satisfying clacky sound, catering to users looking for a fast and energetic typing experience. It features a well-rounded, refined feel that promotes comfort even during extended use. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange switches offer enhancements from their reissued form but lack specific characteristics in terms of sound and feel, leaving potential users to explore those qualities through individual testing and preference. Overall, choosing between these switches will largely depend on personal preferences, especially in aspects like sound and tactile feedback, while the Gold Pink appears to offer a more clearly defined typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between TTC Gold Pink linear switches and Cherry MX Orange switches largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a lightweight and responsive typing experience, the TTC Gold Pink switches are an excellent choice, especially for rapid typing and gaming. With a mere 37g actuation force, they deliver a buttery and feathery feel, making them suitable for extended use without causing finger fatigue. Additionally, their clacky sound adds a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more balanced and mild typing experience, consider the Cherry MX Orange switches. Although specific details about their force and sound signature are unavailable, their reissued design aims to meet high demand while offering the reliability and quality expected from Cherry products. Ultimately, choose the Gold Pink for a light and lively feel, especially if you engage in fast-paced activities, and go for the MX Orange if you prefer a more traditional, smooth, and well-rounded typing experience.
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