TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both options have their own unique qualities. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility and ease of press, offering a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style and providing a satisfyingly smooth and crispy sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro is polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Ink Red is characterized as silky, chirpy, and polished. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Red, we see that the Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red offers a relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound. Both materials contribute to a pleasing auditory experience, with the Gold Red Pro leaning towards a clear and resonant sound, while the Ink Red provides a satisfying clacky sound that is often described as thin and higher-pitched.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Red Pro boasts a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also offers a relatively high-pitched sound profile that complements the top housing material. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, with the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder sound, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red enhances the clacky nature of the switch.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch, it becomes evident that each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Ink Red may have different housing materials, the end result is likely to be similar in terms of overall satisfaction and sound quality, with each material offering its own unique sound profile characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, the actuation force of the Gold Red Pro is slightly lighter at 43 grams compared to the 45 grams required for the Ink Red. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Red is heavier at 60 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force remains unknown. This means that the Ink Red switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Gold Red Pro. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Gold Red Pro, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Ink Red for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to a variety of preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing style.
Travel distance
The Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for fast and responsive keystrokes. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro for quicker response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a balance between speed and depth, providing users with a choice based on their personal preferences.
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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a low-pitched thocky sound, providing a satisfying typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch produces a chirpy sound along with a neutral tone, which gives it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them versatile options for different users and environments.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. This contributes to a comfortable typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky and mild typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness while minimizing resistance when pressing keys. With a polished finish, this switch also offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the typing feel.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Gateron Ink Red linear switches offer excellent sound and feel qualities, making them suitable for a wide range of users and preferences. While the Gold Red Pro provides a neutral sound and polished typing experience, the Ink Red stands out with its chirpy sound and silky feel. Whether you prefer a thocky sound with subtle resistance or a chirpy sound with smooth key travel, both switches deliver reliable performance for various typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider your typing style and preferred sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force and a crisp, clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value versatility and a neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Red Pro would be a great option. Both switches offer smooth key travel and a pleasant typing experience, so ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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