TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and Dareu Snow linear switches both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Gold Red Pro is known for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience suitable for a variety of users and settings. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material, offering a deeper sound signature while typing. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why you might choose them, 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it resonate clearly. This material is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow features a POK top housing, which is praised for its smoothness and durability. While both materials offer unique qualities, it can be said that they aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a distinctive sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Snow opt for nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more rounded sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the typing experience. Despite the differences in top housing material, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Although the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Snow differ in their choice of top housing material, with the former using polycarbonate and the latter utilizing POK, both switches share the same material for their bottom housing, nylon. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience on both switches will be characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The contrast between the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile of polycarbonate and the smooth, clacky sound of POK adds a unique element to each switch, catering to different preferences of keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in both switches contributes to the overall typing experience and sound profile that users can expect.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dareu Snow at 60 grams is heavier compared to the Gold Red Pro, which does not have a specified bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Gold Red Pro, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dareu Snow. Both switches provide a different tactile experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces in a switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The Snow switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Dareu Snow switches offer a thocky and neutral sound profile, with the Gold Red Pro having a low-pitched characteristic as well. This means that both switches provide a satisfying and rich sound when pressed, suitable for various environments. The choice between the two would depend on individual preference for a slightly deeper sound (Snow) versus a slightly lower pitch (Gold Red Pro).
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering smooth key travel with reduced friction and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its bouncy feedback sensation, providing a lively and spring-like key press. Depending on whether you prefer a more refined and polished typing experience (Gold Red Pro) or a bouncier and more energetic feel (Snow), the decision would be based on personal typing preferences.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Dareu Snow switches have their own strengths in sound and feel. If you're looking for a switch with a deep thocky sound and a versatile typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly bouncier feel and a smooth linear switch with a deeper sound profile, the Dareu Snow switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to individual preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you value versatility and a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice for you. Its polished and silky feel offers a smooth typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel, the Snow switch with its innovative POK material construction may be more to your liking. Consider the bottom out force, sound, and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns better with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
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