TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact the typing experience, and the TTC Gold Red Pro and Kailh BCP both offer unique advantages for users seeking a linear switch. The TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, ensuring a smooth and satisfying typing experience that accommodates a broad spectrum of preferences. With a neutral sound profile that balances nicely between being too loud or too quiet, this switch is equally suitable for gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP introduces a delightful twist on the traditional linear switch, boasting a creamy, elastic feel and a distinctly poppy sound that can invigorate each keystroke. While the Gold Red Pro emphasizes adaptability and a subtle tactile response, the BCP offers a lively and engaging typing experience that can make mundane tasks feel more exciting. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Kailh BCP, one of the most significant differences lies in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Gold Red Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows for clearer sound resonance, making it an excellent choice for users who favor a more pronounced auditory feedback, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Kailh BCP opts for a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper, fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively, creating a soundscape that is rounder and less piercing compared to that of polycarbonate.
On the other hand, both switches share the same material for their bottom housing: nylon. This commonality emphasizes the foundational aspects of sound and tactile feedback in both switches. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the overall sound profile, providing a muted bottom-out sound that enhances the typing experience. Since the bottom housing typically affects the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches will exhibit a similar auditory depth and warmth attributed to the use of nylon, regardless of the contrasting top materials. This creates a balance in the overall sound experience, where tactile feedback is softened by nylon in both models.
Ultimately, while the TTC Gold Red Pro and Kailh BCP differ in their top housing materials—polycarbonate lending a crisper sound and nylon offering a rounder quality—they share a common bottom housing material. This dual structure allows users to enjoy a blend of experiences: the Gold Red Pro offers a bright and vibrant sound during key release, while the Kailh BCP emphasizes a rich and enveloping auditory experience. Despite these differences, the combination of these materials ensures that users can achieve satisfying results in their typing experiences, stemming from the distinct properties of each housing type while leveraging the advantages of nylon's sound dampening in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming periods. In contrast, the Kailh BCP requires a heavier actuation force of 52 grams and has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile feel under the fingers. While the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is not available, the absence of this data means we cannot draw a direct comparison for that aspect. Overall, if you value lighter switches for comfort and prolonged use, the Gold Red Pro may be your best option; however, if you enjoy a more pronounced push feel, the Kailh BCP would likely be more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red Pro has a longer travel distance at 3.8 mm, while the Kailh BCP measures 3.5 mm. This difference may impact user experience, particularly for those who seek the responsiveness often favored by gamers; in this case, the BCP's shorter travel distance can offer quicker actuation times. Conversely, the Gold Red Pro's greater travel distance might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel under their fingers, offering a sense of depth with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference, with the Kailh BCP catering to those prioritizing speed and the TTC Gold Red Pro suiting those who enjoy a more traditional and tactile 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 switch is notable for its neutral, low-pitched profile, producing a thocky sound when pressed. This gives it a deep, rich audio presence without being overwhelming, making it suitable for various environments, whether you're typing at home, in an office, or gaming. In contrast, the specifics of the Kailh BCP's sound profile are unknown, leaving a gap in comparative analysis. However, it's worth noting that individual setups, including the keyboard used and the keycaps chosen, can largely influence overall sound characteristics for both switches, suggesting that the Gold Red Pro will provide a more predictable auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro excels, characterized by a polished, silky smoothness that minimizes resistance during key presses. The typing experience is mild and approachable, suited for users who prefer subtle keys that offer gentle feedback without overwhelming effort. The Kailh BCP's feel is also unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. Still, the Gold Red Pro's refined design will provide a consistently satisfying tactile experience, which many users find appealing, especially during prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch stands out with its versatile sound profile and exceptionally smooth feel, making it a reliable choice for both casual and serious users alike. While the Kailh BCP's characteristics remain unclear in this regard, the Gold Red Pro delivers an impressive all-around performance that can cater to different preferences, providing a balanced auditory and tactile experience suitable for a wide audience. If you gravitate toward lush, rich sounds, along with a seamless typing experience, the Gold Red Pro is poised to meet those expectations effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, your choice should reflect your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a versatile and adaptive switch, the Gold Red Pro is ideal for you, especially if you seek a smooth, polished typing experience with a neutral sound profile that fits seamlessly into various environments, such as an office or gaming setup. However, if you prefer a more distinct and engaging typing experience, the Kailh BCP switch might be the better option, offering a unique bouncy feel and a poppy, clacky sound that can enhance your interaction with the keyboard, particularly if you enjoy the tactile feedback and sound that adds character to your typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a refined, subtle experience or a more expressive and dynamic one.
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