TTC Gold Red Pro vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Honey both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Honey switch is characterized by its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability and accessibility, the Honey switch offers a luxurious typing experience with a more subdued sound. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Honey both use polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed to use RGB lighting. However, the Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing which offers a sharper and crisper sound.
While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Honey impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The TTC Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer and more absorbent sound profile, which is felt more when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the TTC Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a clearer and more resonant sound, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This highlights how the choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience on mechanical keyboards.
In summary, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Honey both offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials. The Gold Red Pro combines the sharpness of polycarbonate in the top housing with the deeper sound of nylon in the bottom housing, providing a balance between clarity and fullness. In contrast, the Honey emphasizes sharpness and crispness with polycarbonate used in both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a more consistent sound profile overall. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Honey's 42 grams, making the Gold Red Pro the lighter option when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams, which is heavier than the Gold Red Pro's unknown bottom out force. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the Honey switch offers a bit more resistance when fully pressed. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Honey switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the TTC Honey linear switches have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either one of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. Overall, the travel distance of the two switches is identical, providing a similar feel and performance for users who prefer linear switches with a 3.8 mm travel distance.
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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 that falls in the neutral range, making it a versatile option for a wide variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch provides a more subdued sound profile, offering a quieter and more gentle typing experience. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Red Pro being more adaptable and the Honey offering a smoother and creamier typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a refined and smooth typing experience with a moderate level of resistance. On the other hand, the Honey switch offers a creamy, frictionless, buttery, and subtle feel, giving users a smoother and more effortless keystroke experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, with the Gold Red Pro focusing on a polished and versatile feel, while the Honey emphasizes a silky and creamy sensation.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red Pro provides a neutral and versatile sound with a polished and mild feel, making it suitable for various typing preferences and environments. In contrast, the Honey switch delivers a more subdued sound with a creamy and buttery feel, offering a smoother and more luxurious typing experience. Both switches have their own unique strengths, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Gold Red Pro or the Honey, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets your personal preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the TTC Honey linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smooth and creamy typing feel accompanied by a subdued sound profile, the Honey switch might be more to your liking. Both switches have their own unique features and benefits, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red Pro and Honey switches will depend on your individual preferences and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
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