TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly impact your typing experience. The TTC Gold Red Pro stands out as a linear switch known for its versatility. With its smooth key press and neutral sound signature, it offers a seamless typing experience suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly is a tactile switch that offers a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience especially for those who appreciate tactile feedback. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Holly utilize polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for those looking for a switch with clear and resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup, as it allows light to shine through the housing.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches. The Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, offering a typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing similar sound characteristics as the Gold Red Pro and offering a typing experience that is duller and rounder compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the different bottom housing materials result in slightly varied sound profiles and typing experiences. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material will play a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, both the Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Holly offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but it can be assumed that they may be similar since they are not specified. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Holly for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Holly. The Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm distance may provide a quicker response time, which could be beneficial for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Holly's 4 mm travel distance may offer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which is neutral and suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Dareu Holly tactile switch provides a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds that cater to users seeking a distinct typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile choices for different preferences.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is known for its polished and silky finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with mild and subtle characteristics. On the other hand, information on the Dareu Holly tactile switch's feel is not provided. However, based on the moderate 50g actuation force, it can be inferred that the Holly switch might offer a balanced and comfortable typing feel.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch stands out for its adaptability and seamless typing experience, with a neutral sound profile and polished feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique sound signature and is suitable for users looking for a distinctive typing experience. Depending on your preferences, both switches provide quality options for different typing needs, ensuring that you'll get satisfying results in your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you, whether you're gaming, working, or typing leisurely. On the other hand, if you're looking for a unique sound signature with a blend of chirpy and clacky elements at a medium actuation force, the Holly switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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