TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both switches are linear switches that offer a smooth keystroke with no tactile bump or audible click. The Gold Pink stands out with its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a fast and effortless typing experience, perfect for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A offers a medium-weight feel and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more subdued typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar tactile experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the Gold Pink stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type A's nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold Pink's top housing allows for a more resonant and clear sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more defined typing experience.
On the other hand, while both switches share similar qualities in their bottom housing material, the Gold Pink and Type A diverge in their top housing material. The Gateron Type A's nylon top housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile, contrasting with the sharper and clearer sound profile produced by the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing. This difference in top housing material leads to a distinct typing experience between the two switches, with the Gold Pink offering a more vibrant and precise sound while the Type A provides a softer and more muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and feel during typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type A play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. While both switches share nylon bottom housings that result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the differing top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound clarity and resonance. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for users who prefer a more defined typing experience, while the Type A's nylon top housing offers a softer and more rounded sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink is lighter in both aspects. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Gold Pink. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Gold Pink will be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter actuation and bottom out force, while the Type A switch caters to those who prefer a slightly heavier touch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience whether using the Gold Pink or the Type A switch, as both switches offer the same tactile feedback and travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, making them equally suitable options for those looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 offers a clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying level of feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is described as having a neutral or subdued sound signature, leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is characterized as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptors suggest a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare to the Gold Pink in this aspect.
Taking all available information into consideration, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch stands out for its light actuation force, lively feel, and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a fast and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a unique sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, but additional details about its feel are needed for a comprehensive comparison. Overall, both switches provide different qualities that cater to varying preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the factors of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prioritize a light and lively typing experience with a lower bottom out force, opt for the Gold Pink switch. This switch is perfect for fast and effortless typing, making it ideal for rapid typists or gamers. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a slightly deeper sound profile, the Gateron Type A switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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