TTC Gold Pink vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the TTC Silent Brown 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 TTC Silent Brown. While both switches offer their own unique advantages, they cater to different preferences. The Gold Pink, a linear switch, is renowned for its lightness, with an actuation force of 37g, providing a fast and effortless typing experience. These switches are particularly well-suited for rapid typing and gaming, delivering a satisfying level of feedback thanks to their clacky sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches are tactile and offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. One of the key highlights of the Silent Brown switches is their muted sound profile, making them a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and TTC Silent Brown switches share many similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in sound and aesthetics when using either the Gold Pink or the Silent Brown switches.
Where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. While both utilize nylon, the properties of this material create distinct sound profiles. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic. The absorption of more sound compared to harder plastics results in a duller and rounder tone. This means that the Gold Pink and Silent Brown switches will provide a contrasting typing experience when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel, as the bottom housing has a significant impact on these aspects.
In summary, the Gold Pink and Silent Brown switches offer comparable sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing. However, the difference in their nylon bottom housing results in distinct typing experiences. The Gold Pink showcases a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Brown offers a duller and rounder tone. Overall, users can expect similar results with regards to the top housing's impact on sound, while experiencing a contrasting feel with the bottom housing's influence.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force provide distinctive characteristics. The lighter option is the Gold Pink, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lightness allows for a smooth and effortless keystroke, ideal for those who prefer longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Gold Pink. The bottom out force for the Silent Brown is 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that provides a satisfying feedback when fully pressed. For individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Silent Brown switch would be more suitable. While both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, they cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, the Silent Brown is the shorter option. This can be beneficial for gamers who prioritize faster response times and a more responsive typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press, the Gold Pink's longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which offers a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound of the switch for both options.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Pink and the Silent Brown switches share similar qualities. They are both described as providing a buttery typing experience, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. They also fall into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience without extreme characteristics. This makes them approachable to most users, as these qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are said to have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. This is due to the materials used and/or factory lubing, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and the TTC Silent Brown switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound. The Gold Pink has a clacky sound, while the Silent Brown has a muted sound profile. However, when it comes to feel, both switches provide a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and effortless keystroke with both switches. It's important to note that personal preferences and the choice of keyboard components can also impact the overall experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prioritize a fast and effortless typing or gaming experience, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are light, with a bottom out force of 45 grams, and have a 37g actuation force, making them some of the lightest switches available. They provide a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound, delivering a light and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a slightly heavier feel compared to the Gold Pink. They are also known for their muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound. Both switches have common characteristics such as a buttery and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke. Overall, the choice between the Gold Pink and Silent Brown switches boils down to your preference for light linear switches or slightly heavier tactile switches, as well as your desire for a clacky sound or a more muted sound profile.
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