TTC Gold Pink vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the TTC Gold Pink and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches stand out as two distinct options, each catering to different user preferences. The TTC Gold Pink switches, renowned for their light 37g actuation force, provide an effortless, rapid typing experience that is particularly favored by gamers and those who value speed in their keystrokes. Their clacky sound offers a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are designed for those who appreciate a tactile sensation, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that delivers a refined feedback tailored for comfortable typing. This collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses ensures a quality experience for users seeking a blend of usability and responsiveness. In short, while the Gold Pink switches deliver a light and lively feel, the Cherry MX Purple switches offer tactile precision that many typists prefer. 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
45g
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 TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches present interesting contrasts in their choice of top housing materials, which shapes the overall auditory experience they offer. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant audio output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, allowing light to shine through vividly, thereby enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. In stark contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes nylon as its top housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, giving a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in top housing material directly influences how each switch sounds and feels when a user interacts with it.
Turning to the bottom housing, both the TTC Gold Pink and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches share the same material: nylon. This uniformity brings a level of consistency in sound profile when these switches are engaged. Both switches will evoke a similar sensation of depth and fullness due to the soft nature of nylon, which absorbs sound effectively and contributes to a muted bottom-out sound when the key is pressed. Thus, while their top housings create distinct sounds, the practical experience of bottoming out on both switches will feel quite alike because of their common nylon bottom housing. This aspect highlights how the characteristics of the materials directly dictate the user experience, solidifying nylon's reputation as a well-regarded choice for achieving a comfortable and acoustically pleasant bottom-out feel.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in these switches accentuates the potential for a varied auditory experience based on user preference. While the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing focuses on delivering a crisper sound emphasized by clear RGB aesthetics, the Cherry MX Purple RGB’s nylon top housing guarantees a warm and rounded sound. Nevertheless, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a shared quality, allowing for an experience that feels consistent as users interact with the switches. Depending on whether one favors a high-pitched or deep sound profile, the decision between the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Purple RGB could hinge on individual auditory preferences, emphasizing how the nuanced differences in material choice determine both the sound and tactile feedback offered by keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, notable differences in actuation force emerge. The Gold Pink features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions, as users can type with less strain on their fingers. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer firmer key presses. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple is currently unknown. As a result, while both switches offer unique benefits, the Gold Pink is the lighter option, ideal for users who favor ease of use, whereas the MX Purple caters to those seeking a stronger tactile feel. If the MX Purple had a known bottom out force, we could draw further comparisons; otherwise, the existing knowledge leaves a gap in direct comparisons.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that users will experience similar distances when pressing down on either key. This equivalence in travel distance means that the feel and responsiveness during use will be nearly identical, contributing to a consistent typing or gaming experience. However, while the travel distances are the same, these switches may differ in other characteristics, such as actuation force and tactile feedback, which could influence user preference. Overall, users can expect comparable results in terms of travel distance when opting for either switch.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky tone, providing a lively auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. This characteristic makes it appealing for users who enjoy a more engaging and dynamic sound profile while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch also has distinct sound qualities, revolving around its tactile bump, but specific details regarding its sound haven’t been outlined. However, since sound can significantly vary based on the board and keycaps used, both switches may yield comparable experiences if they are placed on similar setups.
When discussing the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Pink stands out as being exceptionally light and buttery, offering a smooth typing experience that is incredibly forgiving during extended use. The light actuation force, rated at 37g, means fingers won't experience much strain, which is particularly beneficial for fast typists or gamers. Additionally, descriptors like mild, feathery, subtle, and polished lend credence to its very approachable and user-friendly nature. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is celebrated for its tactile feedback with a medium-strength bump, tailored for those seeking a refined tactile experience. While it may not be explicitly described as smooth or light as the Gold Pink, the collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts suggests it prioritizes a balance of tactility without being overly aggressive.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is best suited for users looking for a lightweight and smooth typing sensation combined with a lively sound profile, making it ideal for fast-paced tasks. The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, while potentially offering a tactile experience with a satisfying bump, lacks specific details regarding its sound and overall feel compared to the Gold Pink. Both switches provide distinct but enjoyable experiences that can cater to different preferences, and the choice between them would largely depend on whether one prioritizes a feather-light typing experience or a tactile feedback sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prioritize speed and a lightweight feel, the Gold Pink is an excellent choice. Its 37g actuation force allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for rapid typing and gaming sessions where every millisecond counts. Additionally, its clacky sound and buttery smoothness deliver an engaging auditory and tactile experience, which will appeal to those who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, if you value a tactile response and a more refined typing experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is the way to go. Though it lacks specific bottom-out force information, it is known for its medium-strength bump, providing a satisfying tactile feedback that many typing enthusiasts appreciate. This switch is suitable for users who want both responsiveness and a gentle resistance, making it great for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience without compromising comfort. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a light and speedy action with the Gold Pink or a more tactile, deliberate feel with the MX Purple RGB.
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