TTC Gold Pink vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Gold Pink, a linear switch, is renowned for its incredibly light actuation force of 37g, making it ideal for those seeking a fast and effortless typing or gaming experience. With a satisfying clacky sound, it offers a delightful level of feedback. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are designed for individuals who prefer a medium-light typing feel. They emit a relatively higher-pitched sound, and their sound profile falls into the category of being low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. While these general characteristics are helpful in making an initial choice, let's delve deeper to help determine which switch is the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star RedBlue have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the translucency of polycarbonate, it is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This suggests that both switches will offer similar results in terms of sound profile and visual appeal when it comes to the top housing.
However, the differences arise in their bottom housings. The Gold Pink features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the red and blue SP-Star RedBlue switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This material is relatively stiffer and provides a clear and resonant sound profile. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, so these differences in materials will affect the overall typing experience.
In summary, while both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings and offer similar results in terms of sound profile and visual aesthetic, the materials used in their bottom housings differ. The Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. As a result, the typing experience and sound when letting go of a key may vary between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it relatively light, while its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 45 grams. On the other hand, the actuation force for the RedBlue switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light range.
The lighter actuation force of the Gold Pink switch is beneficial for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing for extended periods, making it an excellent choice for work or long gaming sessions. It provides a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. In contrast, the RedBlue switch offers a potentially stronger push feel due to its higher bottom out force, providing users with a more substantial typing experience.
While the actuation force for the RedBlue switch is not specified, it can be assumed that it will provide similar results to the Gold Pink switch in terms of actuation since they both offer linear switches. However, the notable difference arises when considering the bottom out force, where the RedBlue switch is heavier.
It is worth noting that weight preference ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Some users may favor the lighter actuation force to reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions, while others may find the heavier bottom out force of the RedBlue switch more satisfying for a tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are both 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. The TTC Gold Pink and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances, allowing for fluid keystrokes and precise input.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switches are best described as clacky. They offer a satisfying level of feedback with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches have a lower-pitched sound profile that is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The RedBlue switches are also considered to have a neutral sound, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and are suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switches have a variety of qualities that contribute to a light and lively typing experience. They are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches are also considered mild, offering a gentle typing sensation that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, they are feathery, exceptionally light to press, and require little exertion from the fingers, reducing finger fatigue. The Gold Pink switches are also characterized as subtle, having a gentle resistance and a non-resonant sound, making them suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, they are described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Similarly, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are also considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience akin to the Gold Pink switches. They share the polished quality, providing a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Gold Pink and RedBlue switches offer different sound profiles, with the Gold Pink being clacky and the RedBlue having a lower-pitched tone, they share similar qualities in terms of feel. Both switches are described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Additionally, they both have a polished finish that enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Therefore, if you prefer the sound of one switch over the other, you can expect similar subjective qualities in terms of feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, especially for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is the way to go. With a light 45g bottom out force and a 37g actuation force, these switches provide a light and lively typing experience. They offer a satisfying level of feedback and produce a clacky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the better choice. With a 57g bottom out force, these switches strike a balance between feedback and ease of typing. They are particularly suited for those who enjoy a mellow and low-pitched sound. Overall, the decision between these two switches ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and desired force requirements.
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