TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When weighing your options for a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch stand out as top contenders. The Gold Red Pro prides itself on its versatility, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Light Tactile switch from Durock boasts a gentle tactility that sets it apart from more aggressive tactile switches, providing a unique typing experience with a soft and pleasant sound signature. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and specific 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro and the Durock Light Tactile both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This similarity in material will result in similar sound profiles for both switches when typing.
However, the Gold Red Pro has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Durock Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. This difference in the bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
When comparing the housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Durock Light Tactile, it is important to consider how each material affects the sound profile during key presses. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance in impact on the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the two housings adds complexity to the typing experience on both switches.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Durock Light Tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 52 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro's force is unknown while the Light Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Red Pro for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Light Tactile switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Light Tactile's 4 mm distance. Both switches offer a travel distance that falls within the range of traditional distances, with the Light Tactile being slightly longer. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and how much depth and responsiveness you desire in your typing experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro for faster response times, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Light Tactile for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with just a minor variation between them.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound that is gentle and jelly-like, making it a soothing option for those who prefer a softer auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro being described as silky, mild, and subtle. This means that users can expect smooth key travel with reduced friction and a gentle typing feel. The Light Tactile switch also provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Red Pro excels in its thocky and low-pitched sound profile alongside a polished and silky typing experience, the Light Tactile switch stands out with its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature paired with a mild and polished typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and feel sensations during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering your switch options, you should opt for the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch if you value versatility and a neutral sound profile for a seamless typing experience in various settings. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch would be ideal for those seeking a gentle tactility and a smooth typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the type of environment you'll be using the keyboard in. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and needs for an optimal keyboard experience.
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