TTC Gold Pink vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it becomes clear that both offer unique typing experiences. The Gold Pink is favored for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, providing a swift and effortless typing experience ideal for those who type quickly or engage in gaming. Its clacky sound delivers a satisfying level of feedback, making typing more enjoyable. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that is both responsive and audibly satisfying. While the Gold Pink is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the MX Red is described as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Both switches have their strengths depending on individual preferences. 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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Red switches offer unique characteristics that impact the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and rounded sound profile. However, the different top housing materials result in a noticeable difference in the overall sound produced by each switch.
While both the Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Red switches have a nylon bottom housing, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom impacts the overall typing experience. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing affects the sound when a key is released, while the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This distinction highlights how the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a mechanical switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Pink and the Cherry MX Red switches, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is enhanced by the qualities of their respective housing materials. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the differences in top housing materials, both switches benefit from the absorption properties of the shared nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and rounded sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Pink is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Pink requires 37 grams of actuation force and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. While this may indicate a heavier overall typing experience compared to the Gold Pink, it is difficult to make a direct comparison without knowing the exact bottom out force. Overall, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Gold Pink, while those who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel may lean towards the Cherry MX Red, assuming the bottom out force is indeed heavier.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it is clear that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect consistent feedback and feel when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. This means that whether you choose the TTC Gold Pink or the Cherry MX Red, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 best described as producing a clacky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich typing experience. Both switches offer different sound qualities, with the Gold Pink delivering a lighter and livelier sound compared to the MX Red, which offers a more robust and substantial auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink linear switch is characterized as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth, gentle, and light typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, potentially offering a more tactile and frictional typing sensation. While the Gold Pink switch focuses on providing a seamless and effortless typing feel, the MX Red switch may offer a bit more resistance and feedback due to its textured nature.
Overall, choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter and livelier typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switch may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, richer sound profile with a slightly heftier feel, the Cherry MX Red switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and either option will provide a reliable and satisfying typing experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lighter actuation force and a quicker typing experience, the Gold Pink may be the better choice for you, especially if you engage in rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile, the MX Red switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Additionally, consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to further guide your decision-making process. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Pink and MX Red switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing needs.
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