TTC Gold Pink vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Jwick Taro 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 Jwick Taro. The Gold Pink switch stands out for its lightweight design, boasting a mere 37g actuation force. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience, ideal for both rapid typing and gaming. Additionally, the Gold Pink switch offers a satisfying level of feedback, thanks to its clacky sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch provides a comfortable and cozy typing experience, much like its subdued color scheme suggests. With a snappy and medium-level of tactility, the Taro switch delivers acute and crisp clacks, further enhancing the typing experience. Both switches have unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Jwick Taro both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. This is because it is a stiffer plastic, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency makes it particularly useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of sound and aesthetics, both switches would provide similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Gold Pink features a nylon bottom housing, while the Taro also utilizes nylon as its base. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Gold Pink and the Taro would provide a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced from the bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on the switches, the impact and resulting sound will be influenced by the bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the overall typing experience may have some similarities between the two switches due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the sound and feel when releasing a key may vary based on the unique qualities of their respective polycarbonate top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gold Pink is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring only 37 grams, while the Taro's actuation force is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Pink requires 45 grams, which can be considered relatively light. In contrast, the Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Pink would be a suitable choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. This is beneficial for those who spend long hours typing, whether it be in a work or gaming setting. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and sturdy typing experience may opt for the Taro switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Though the actuation force for the Taro is unknown, one can infer that it would offer a similar level of resistance.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, whereas the Jwick Taro tactile switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, with lighter switches providing extended typing comfort and heavier switches offering a more forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.7mm is slightly shallower. This difference may not be significant to some, but it can affect the typing experience for others. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In this case, the Taro would be the preferred option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Gold Pink with its longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and whether responsiveness or depth is more important to the user.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 switch is best described as clacky. This means that when typing on these switches, you will hear a distinct and audible sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or in a work setting. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch is known for providing a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They have a gentle resistance and a light actuation force, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Taro switches, on the other hand, offer a buttery and stepped tactile experience. This means that when typing on these switches, you will feel a mild level of tactility, as well as some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch produces a clacky sound and provides a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switch has a neutral sound profile and offers a buttery and stepped tactile experience. It is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. However, if you prefer a lighter and more effortless typing experience, both options can provide similar results as they are both designed to offer a satisfying level of feedback and a fast typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience with a fast and effortless feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches provide a seamless and uniform keystroke experience. They are perfect for rapid typing or gaming due to their light actuation force of 37 grams. Additionally, the clacky sound they produce offers a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a cozy typing experience, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a snappy and medium-level of tactility. Their acute and crisp clacks provide a pleasant auditory experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile that makes them suitable for most intents and purposes. Furthermore, they are described as buttery switches, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch.
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