TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences vary widely based on individual needs and usage scenarios. The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch stands out for its versatility, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke that caters to both gamers and typists alike. Its neutral sound profile makes it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a quiet yet responsive typing experience, whether in the office or at home. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, known for its tactile feedback, offers a distinct bump with a medium-strength actuation, making it particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response while typing. This switch was developed in collaboration with the keyboard enthusiast Glarses, emphasizing its focus on precision and tactile satisfaction. While both switches provide excellent functionality, they cater to different preferences: the Gold Red Pro for seamless, unobtrusive typing and the Cherry MX Purple for a more interactive, tactile experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
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 Purple RGB, one notable difference arises in their top housings. The Gold Red Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer material enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke, making it ideal for users who prefer a crisp auditory feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer characteristics allow it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches have distinct auditory qualities due to their top housing materials, the Gold Red Pro leans towards a more pronounced sound, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB creates a mellower effect.
As for the bottom housing, both the Gold Red Pro and the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize nylon. This similarity in bottom housing means that threading through the typing experience for both switches yields a deeper and fuller sound, due to nylon's inherent ability to absorb sound. When users type on either switch, they will notice that the deeper tones generated by the nylon bottom housing contribute significantly to the overall sound signature of the switch. Hence, despite the differences in their top housings, users can expect a converging quality in terms of sound profile when pressing down on the switches, as both benefit from the sound absorption attributed to the nylon composition.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the housing materials lead to a distinctive typing experience for each switch type. In the TTC Gold Red Pro, the polycarbonate top housing provides a defining clarity that resonates as a sharper sound, while the nylon bottom still allows for a rounded feel when bottoming out. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its nylon top, crafts a consistently deeper sound profile throughout the key press. Thus, users understanding these nuances can be deliberate in their choice, possibly favoring the Gold Red Pro for its clarity coupled with a richer bottom out sound provided by the nylon base, or the Cherry MX Purple RGB for a more uniform and mellow experience throughout their typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, the actuation forces reveal a subtle difference in feel and performance. The Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users of the Gold Red Pro may find it slightly easier to type for extended periods or during long gaming sessions due to its lighter resistance. Unfortunately, the bottom-out force for both switches is unavailable, so we cannot compare that aspect directly. However, without specific values, it is challenging to draw any conclusions about how they behave when pressed to the limit. Overall, if you're leaning towards a lighter switch that offers less resistance, the TTC Gold Red Pro would be the better option, while the Cherry MX Purple, with its heavier actuation force, might provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer greater tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, we find a notable difference. The Gold Red Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the MX Purple RGB. This means that the Gold Red Pro may provide a more responsive feel, potentially catering to gamers who favor quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced and hearty depth, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying key press. Therefore, if you prioritize response time, the Gold Red Pro is the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke might lean towards the MX Purple RGB.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 boasts a neutral sound signature, falling into the realm of more subdued auditory profiles. It does not dominate the soundscape with any aggressive popping or snapping sounds; rather, it delivers a thocky, low-pitched tone that is both rich and satisfying yet not overpowering. This quality allows the switch to traverse seamlessly across different environments, making it a solid choice for both gaming and professional contexts. In contrast, specific sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactiles, while not detailed, suggest a different auditory profile that may include a pronounced tactile bump, potentially impacting the overall sound experience. However, sound characteristics are inherently influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps, meaning both switches could yield comparable auditory results under similar conditions.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro shines with its polished and silky smooth typing experience. Designed to minimize friction, it provides a mild and subtle resistance that appeals to a broad range of users. This gentle feel ensures the keys glide effortlessly under your fingers, contributing to a comfortable typing experience suitable for prolonged use. The Cherry MX Purple RGB, while noted for a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump, suggests it will feel distinctly different from the smoothness of the Gold Red Pro, providing a tactile feedback that some users may prefer for their typing engagements. Since the tactile feedback is key in describing the Cherry MX Purple's feel, its specifics imply a more pronounced interaction compared to the gentle touch of the Gold Red Pro.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch each offer unique attributes that cater to varying preferences. While the Gold Red Pro provides a balanced and adaptive sound profile alongside a smooth, mild feel suitable for diverse settings and extended typing, the MX Purple appears to focus on a more tactile feedback experience, potentially offering a different sound dynamic. Ultimately, your choice between them will depend on your preference for tactile sensation versus a polished, linear typing experience, but both can deliver satisfying results in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch cater to different preferences and use cases. If you are someone who values versatility and seeks a smooth and seamless typing experience, the Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice. Its polished, silky feel combined with a neutral sound signature makes it suitable for various environments, whether you're gaming, working in an office, or just enjoying casual typing. This switch's mild characteristics provide a welcoming experience for both beginners and seasoned users alike. Conversely, if you enjoy a tactile feedback with each keystroke, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch could be more suitable for you. Its refined tactile bump will enhance your typing experience, making every press a bit more engaging, which is especially appealing for typing enthusiasts looking for precision with a satisfying tactile response. Ultimately, your decision should come down to whether you prefer the smooth linear action of the TTC Gold Red Pro or the tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Purple RGB, aligning with your specific keyboard needs and personal preferences.
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