TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type S. The Gold Pink switch is known for its fast and effortless typing experience, with a mere 37g actuation force making it one of the lightest switches available. Perfect for rapid typing or gaming, these switches offer a satisfying feedback with a clacky sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel. The sound signature of the Type S leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Type S, we see a clear distinction between polycarbonate and nylon. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Type S's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate material used in the Gold Pink provides a more resonant and clear sound, enhanced further by its translucency for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the softer nylon material in the Type S absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Gold Pink and the Type S use nylon for this component. The nylon bottom housing in both cases contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is less sharp and more rounded. While both switches share this common material in their bottom housing, the impact of this material will be felt more when bottoming out a key, highlighting the importance of the bottom housing in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch significantly impacts the sound profile and typing experience. While the Gold Pink and Type S switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Gold Pink and nylon for the Type S - leads to distinct sound characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Pink results in a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Type S produces a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the properties of these materials can help enthusiasts tailor their switch selection to suit their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Gold Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more gentle option. In contrast, the Type S has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more solid and substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Gold Pink to be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more pronounced push feel may opt for the Type S for a more weighted typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for keyboard users.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed down. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results when typing on either switch. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a travel distance that allows for efficient and comfortable typing.
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 S 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
When it comes to sound, the Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound that is satisfying and adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound signatures, the ultimate sound will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth, gentle, light, comfortable, and refined typing experience. In contrast, information about the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not available. With this in mind, it is important to note that the key feel is a crucial aspect of the typing experience, and both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch provides a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Type S switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Pink linear switch or the Gateron Type S linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and effortless typing experience with a satisfying level of feedback, the Gold Pink switches with their 45g bottom out force and 37g actuation force are the way to go. These switches are ideal for rapid typing or gaming due to their fast response times. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a pleasing yet neutral sound profile, the Gateron Type S switches with their 65g bottom out force are worth considering. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize typing experience, sound profile, or a balance of both.
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