TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular contenders are the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry MX Orange, both linear switches prized for their unique characteristics. The TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience that caters to a variety of users, whether gamers, professionals, or casual typists. With a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between subtlety and presence, it allows for comfortable use across diverse environments without disturbing others. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches are known for their robust heritage, having been reissued due to popular demand after their initial production run. Although information on their specific characteristics is lacking, Cherry MX switches are generally recognized for their reliability and consistent performance, making them a staple among enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and specific use cases; 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
55g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry MX Orange, notable differences emerge, particularly in the choice of materials for the top housings. The Gold Red Pro incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is characterized by clarity and resonance. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances the auditory experience by ensuring that sounds are projected with greater brightness. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which yields a deeper, fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a sound that is rounder and more subdued. This fundamental difference in the properties of the materials presents distinct auditory experiences for each switch.
Both switches share a similarity in their bottom housings, with both the Gold Red Pro and the MX Orange using nylon. This choice offers a consistent outcome in terms of sound absorption, as nylon's softer nature contributes to a diminished upper-frequency sound, creating a cohesive feel during use. Since the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, users of both switches can expect a fuller and deeper sound when the key is pressed down, regardless of the differing top materials. Thus, while the top housing results in contrasting sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing serves to unify the sound experience during key presses.
Ultimately, the varied sound profiles created by the distinct top housing materials—polycarbonate for the Gold Red Pro and nylon for the Cherry MX Orange—underscore how material selection influences the auditory character of mechanical switches. While the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a sharper, more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top, the MX Orange delivers a softer, rounder sound with its nylon top housing. However, since both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, users can anticipate a shared quality of deeper sounds upon key depression, showcasing how the combination of materials can yield both unique and familiar acoustic experiences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a significant difference in actuation force. The Gold Red Pro requires an actuation force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option, which is conducive for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as it allows for quicker and less strenuous keystrokes. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches lack defined bottom out force specifications, meaning we cannot directly compare how they perform when pressed all the way down. However, one can expect that because the TTC Gold Red Pro is lighter in actuation force, it will require less effort to reach the actuation point than the Cherry MX Orange. As such, users seeking a softer touch will find the Gold Red Pro more appealing, whereas those desiring a firmer push should opt for the MX Orange. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences for tactile feedback and typing comfort.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gold Red Pro is the shorter option, which can lead to quicker key presses and a more responsive feel, making it potentially more appealing for gamers seeking rapid input. On the other hand, the MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced feedback and a heartier depth for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. In summary, if you prioritize responsiveness, the TTC Gold Red Pro is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas the Cherry MX Orange may suit those who appreciate a deeper typing 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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 stands out with its thocky, low-pitched signature that delivers a deep and gentle sound profile. This creates a rich auditory experience that adds satisfaction to each keystroke and is neither overly harsh nor too muted. This neutral acoustic signature makes it a versatile choice for various environments, from quiet offices to more relaxed gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not have a specified sound profile, making it challenging to compare directly. Thus, while we can confidently assert that the Gold Red Pro offers a harmonious auditory experience, details about the sound of the MX Orange remain unknown.
Regarding feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro excels with its polished, silky, and subtle characteristics. This translates to an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, perfect for users who prefer a gentle touch. The mild and refined action ensures that it suits a wide range of typing styles, providing an approachable experience for newcomers while still being enjoyable for seasoned typists. In contrast, the feel of the MX Orange switch is not explicitly mentioned, so a direct comparison cannot be drawn.
Overall, if you’re seeking an adaptable switch, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch emerges as a noteworthy candidate, especially considering its sound and tactile qualities, which cater to various user needs. While the Cherry MX Orange switch remains somewhat of an enigma in terms of sound and feel characteristics, it may still deliver satisfactory results. Ultimately, both can be great choices depending on personal preference; however, the Gold Red Pro provides more clarity on its subjective qualities, making it easier for newcomers to grasp what they can expect when typing or gaming.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch largely depends on your specific needs and preferences as a typist or gamer. If you value versatility and a universally applicable switch, the Gold Red Pro would be an excellent choice. Its smooth and polished feel, combined with a neutral sound profile, makes it an ideal option for a variety of environments—whether you're typing away at your desk during office hours, gaming late into the night, or enjoying some leisure typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that has historical significance and has been fine-tuned to meet modern expectations, the Cherry MX Orange switch might be more appealing. Although the exact attributes of the MX Orange are not explicitly detailed, its revival from the original MX Orange series hints at a richly satisfying experience that many enthusiasts may appreciate. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits, the environments you operate in, and whether you lean more towards a universally adaptable switch or a specialized homage to traditional designs.
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