TTC Gold Pink vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Huano Sakura both stand out as exceptional linear options, each catering to different user preferences. The TTC Gold Pink is renowned for its feather-light actuation force of just 37g, making it one of the lightest switches available. This characteristic allows for rapid typing and gaming, providing a lively and satisfying experience complemented by a distinctive clacky sound that adds a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches also maintain a lightweight feel, but with a focus on a more refined typing experience suitable for long sessions. These switches exhibit medium acoustics, creating a balanced auditory profile that won't distract during prolonged use. While the Gold Pink appeals to those seeking speed and excitement, the Sakura offers comfort and consistency, particularly beneficial for typists who spend hours at their keyboards. 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
35g
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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Huano Sakura switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which directly influences their overall sound profile. The Gold Pink's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This quality not only enhances clarity but also makes polycarbonate particularly effective when paired with RGB lighting, given its translucency. The use of polycarbonate is indicative of a design that focuses on achieving bright acoustic properties, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a POK top housing. Although POK is recognized for its smoothness and strength, with a high resistance to wear, the sound profile it produces contributes a different auditory experience. The emphasis on smoothness means that while the Sakura may not reach the same piercing highs as the Gold Pink, it offers a balanced clack that can be favored by users seeking a harmonious typing experience.
When considering the bottom housing of both switches, they share a commonality as they are both made from nylon, a tried-and-true material in the realm of keyboard switches. Nylon's intrinsic properties lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thereby enriching the end-user experience. Since both switches leverage nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect similar auditory characteristics when pressing the keys. This similarity implies that while the top housing may dictate the initial sound upon actuation, the bottom housing provides a cohesive and rounded chime when the key is fully pressed down, maintaining a sense of continuity between both designs.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch results in a unique tactile and auditory feel. While the Gold Pink’s polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and brightness, the Sakura’s POK top housing focuses on smoothness and durability. Yet, both switches manage to align in their bottom housing choice, which instills a rich sound profile characteristic of nylon. This interplay of materials indicates that, regardless of the differences in top housing, the overall typing experience can bear similarities tied to the shared nylon composition, leading to a fulfilling typing experience rooted in depth and resonance.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch to the Huano Sakura linear switch, we observe that both switches have fairly light actuation forces, with the Gold Pink requiring 37 grams and the Sakura a slightly lighter 35 grams to trigger a keystroke. This difference in actuation force suggests that the Sakura may offer a marginally easier typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 45 grams, meaning that users will experience a similar level of resistance when fully pressing the key. Ultimately, while the Gold Pink is heavier in terms of actuation force, both switches have identical bottom out forces, making them suitable for individuals who appreciate a lighter typing feel without compromising on a solid bottom out experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Gold Pink features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sakura boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gold Pink the longer travel switch, offering a more traditional depth that some users may find preferable for a more deliberate typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who prioritize responsiveness and faster key presses, making it potentially more suitable for gaming. Thus, if you lean towards a more tactile feel and depth, the Gold Pink may be the better choice, whereas for a quicker and more efficient response, the Sakura could be the way to go.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch produces a clacky, lively noise that adds excitement to the typing experience. This attribute makes it particularly satisfying for users who enjoy audible feedback while they type or game. The sound can be attributed to the switch's lightweight actuation and overall design, which encourages a more spirited interaction with the keys. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is characterized by its medium acoustics, creating a more subdued sound profile. This makes the Sakura a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially suitable for long typing sessions in shared environments. While both switches offer different auditory experiences, they can be complemented by selecting the right keycaps and keyboard to achieve the desired sound.
Regarding feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch offers a unique combination of buttery smoothness and a feathery touch, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable. Users can expect a mild yet polished typing sensation, where the light actuation force helps in reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. This allows for rapid typing and gaming without the strain commonly associated with switches that require more force. In contrast, while specific descriptors for the Huano Sakura weren't provided, it's known for a feather-light touch, further emphasizing comfort during extended typing sessions. This makes the Sakura a suitable choice for users who prioritize ease of use and minimal resistance in their key presses.
In summary, both the TTC Gold Pink and Huano Sakura switches present compelling options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. The Gold Pink switch shines with its clacky sound and smooth, feathery feel, perfect for those who thrive on feedback during fast-paced activities. Meanwhile, the Sakura provides a quieter operation and a light touch, ideal for long typing sessions. Although they differ in their sound profiles, both switches can deliver a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, particularly for varied user preferences. Thus, if you choose either switch, you will likely enjoy an effortless and satisfying experience tailored to your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch will primarily depend on your typing style and environment. If you prioritize a fast, effortless typing experience, especially for activities like rapid typing or intense gaming, the Gold Pink is a fantastic option. Its light 37g actuation force and entertaining clacky sound add to a playful yet satisfying feedback that can enhance your overall experience. This switch is well-suited for those who crave a lively feel and a buttery, polished typing sensation that minimizes finger fatigue. Conversely, if you find yourself engaged in long typing sessions, the Huano Sakura switches may be more advantageous. With a feather-light touch and medium acoustics, they provide a gentler and more subtle typing experience that’s perfect for extended use without overwhelming noise. Their gentle resistance ensures that you can type comfortably for hours, making them ideal for work or study environments where noise might be a consideration. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize lightness and responsiveness or a smooth, less intrusive feel for prolonged typing.
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