TTC Gold Pink vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the TTC Gold Pink and the Haimu Orange Sea, both of which offer unique advantages for different user experiences. The Gold Pink switch is renowned for its feather-light 37g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and agility in their typing or gaming sessions. Its clacky sound offers an engaging auditory feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch provides an impeccably smooth typing feel paired with a neutral sound signature, catering to users who prefer a quieter experience without sacrificing performance. With the Gold Pink, you'll enjoy a fast and spirited typing journey, while the Orange Sea offers a refined and seamless touch. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and Haimu Orange Sea keyboards both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which leads to very similar acoustic characteristics. As described, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This material's clarity is amplified when the housing is translucent, making it a popular choice for RGB lighting applications. Since both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, users can expect a consistently bright and resonant sound when engaging and releasing keys, enhancing the overall auditory experience with crisp feedback that complements their gaming or typing needs.
In contrast, while both the Gold Pink and Orange Sea feature nylon as the material for their bottom housings, the sonic properties introduced by this choice differ from those of the polycarbonate top. Nylon’s softer nature absorbs sound waves more effectively, resulting in a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This variability between the softer nylon bottom and the stiffer polycarbonate top impacts the overall acoustic signature when the switches are engaged and released. As a result, while the top housing contributes a bright and cutting sound, the bottom housing modulates this with a fuller, more muted quality that envelops the auditory experience, providing a rich dynamic range to the user.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the TTC Gold Pink and Haimu Orange Sea creates a balanced sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing ensures that key presses have an immediate high-frequency clarity, while the nylon bottom housing infuses warmth and fullness into the sound. Together, these materials lead to a hybrid auditory experience that highlights the strengths of both types. Though the switches employ different characteristics in their upper and lower housings, the synergetic effects of the materials result in a cohesive typing experience, ensuring that typists benefit from both the clarity of the polycarbonate and the warmth of the nylon in a seamless manner.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, both share the same specifications in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches, making them ideal for prolonged use without causing excessive fatigue. Since both switches have identical force measurements, they cater to those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming, delineating a preference for quick keystrokes and less strain during long sessions. Overall, neither switch is heavier than the other, and both provide a light feel, making them suitable for users seeking a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch present differing travel distances, which can significantly affect typing experience. The Gold Pink features a traditional travel distance of 4 mm, providing a deeper keystroke that many users may find satisfying, especially those who prefer a sense of depth in their key presses. In contrast, the Orange Sea has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to users who favor quicker responsiveness, a feature often desired by gamers seeking faster actuation. While both switches are linear and known for smooth operation, the Gold Pink offers a longer travel distance, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced key feel, whereas the Orange Sea's shorter distance facilitates swifter input. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 switch is characterized by a clacky sound, which adds a lively auditory feedback to each keystroke. This trait is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more engaging typing or gaming experience, enhancing the sense of satisfaction with each press. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is noted for its neutral sound signature. This offers a more subdued and less intrusive auditory experience, which may be preferable in shared or quieter environments where sound levels can be a concern. Ultimately, while both switches provide distinct sound qualities, the Gold Pink tends to stand out with its more pronounced acoustics.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a buttery and polished keystroke experience, making each press feel smooth and refined. This is complemented by a feathery touch due to its light 37g actuation force, which minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. The overall typing sensation is lively yet manageable. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is described as having an impeccably smooth type feel, though less specific descriptors are provided regarding its tactile feedback or actuation characteristics. While both switches provide a smooth typing experience, the Gold Pink’s blend of delicacy and comfort likely appeals to those seeking a touch of responsiveness in their keystrokes.
In summary, both the TTC Gold Pink and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches offer unique attributes catering to different preferences. The Gold Pink excels with its lively clacky sound and a buttery, polished feel that enhances tactile enjoyment, making it ideal for fast-paced typing scenarios. Meanwhile, the Orange Sea’s neutral sound and emphasis on smoothness cater to users prioritizing discretion and comfort during their typing experience. Depending on the environment and typing style, these switches can deliver satisfying results, whether one leans towards the engaging feedback of the Gold Pink or the understated elegance of the Orange Sea.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light and lively typing experience with a bit of satisfying feedback, the Gold Pink is your go-to. Its low actuation force makes it particularly appealing for rapid typists and gamers who thrive on speed and efficiency. The buttery smoothness and mild sound signature mean you can enjoy a refined typing experience that feels effortless, making it ideal for extended sessions whether you’re working, playing, or studying. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother, quieter feel with a more neutral sound profile, the Orange Sea would be the better choice. These switches offer a polished, seamless typing experience ideal for quieter environments or shared spaces. They cater to those who value subtlety and smoothness rather than the lively feedback of clackier switches. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the environment you're in, and how you want your keyboard to feel and sound before making your decision.
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