TTC Gold Pink vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the Durock Sea Glass. The Gold Pink switches are known for their lightness, with a 37g actuation force, making them ideal for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. They offer a satisfying level of feedback and produce a clacky sound, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches from Durock boast a captivating selection of pastel colors and a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness when typing, thanks to their proprietary material blend. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, these switches feel weightless and have a frictionless nature. Additionally, they produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can better decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Durock Sea Glass switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Sea Glass features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing. This blend creates a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards a brighter tone. While both switches offer different sound profiles, they both provide pleasing results for users seeking distinctive sound experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Gold Pink employs a nylon construction, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Sea Glass incorporates a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This blend, similar to its top housing, contributes to a unique sound profile that is pleasant and bright. As with the top housing, the bottom housing materials of these switches ultimately enhance the overall sound experience but in different ways.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the impact of each housing material on the sound when pressing down or letting go of a key. With the Gold Pink, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's bottom housing blend, while unique, still offers a pleasant sound experience leaning towards a brighter tone. As for the sound upon key release, the qualities of the top housing will come into play. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Pink creates a sharper and crisper sound when keys are let go, while the Sea Glass's top housing blend contributes to a slightly brighter sound upon key release. Overall, while there are differences between the two switches' housing materials, both offer pleasing results depending on the user's desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, we can observe some key differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it lighter compared to the Sea Glass's actuation force of 45 grams. Additionally, the Gold Pink has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Sea Glass has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Pink switch would be a suitable option as its actuation and bottom out forces are relatively low. This allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it ideal for tasks that require extended periods of typing like working or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This can be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a bit more feedback with each keystroke.
It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between these two switches, both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preferences. If one wishes to achieve similar results with a lighter or heavier force, selecting a switch with a comparable actuation or bottom out force would be the way to go.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Glass has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches have similar travel distances, the Gold Pink offers a slightly longer distance to travel compared to the Sea Glass.
In terms of preference, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and intended use. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance offered by the Sea Glass. This allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially improved gaming performance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress and a greater sense of depth may opt for the Gold Pink with its longer travel distance.
It is important to note that travel distance is just one factor to consider when choosing a switch, as there are various other aspects such as actuation force and tactile feedback that can also impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out different switches and determine which one best suits individual preferences and requirements.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 switches are best described as clacky. They offer a satisfying level of feedback, delivering a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches have a uniquely hollow sound signature. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, the actual sound may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Pink switches provide a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle resistance that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. They are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Sea Glass switches, on the other hand, offer a frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press typing experience. They provide an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. The light actuation force enhances the typing experience by offering responsiveness and low-impact typing feel.
Taking into account the available information, it's evident that both the TTC Gold Pink linear switches and the Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer subjective qualities that make them suitable for different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a clacky sound and a light and lively typing experience, the Gold Pink switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a hollow sound signature, a frictionless and effortless typing experience, and a light actuation force, the Sea Glass switches would be a better fit. Despite their differences, both switches offer a smooth and gentle typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended usage. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, as well as the other factors involved, such as the keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience, particularly for rapid typing or gaming, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice. With its low bottom out force of 45 grams and 37g actuation force, these switches offer a fast and effortless typing experience. They provide a satisfying level of feedback with a clacky sound. As for sound, the Gold Pink switches are characterized by a [insert sound description here].
On the other hand, if you are drawn to a captivating selection of pastel colors and prefer a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness in your typing experience, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is the way to go. Despite its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, these switches give off a weightless feeling that defies expectations, showcasing their frictionless nature. They also produce a unique hollow sound signature. In terms of feel, the Sea Glass switches are described as [insert feel description here].
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Gold Pink and Durock Sea Glass linear switches will depend on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and desired typing experience to make the best choice for you. Whichever switch you choose, both the TTC Gold Pink and Durock Sea Glass offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
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