TTC Gold Red Pro vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and SP-Star Duck offer two distinct typing experiences. The Gold Red Pro is a linear switch that prides itself on versatility, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch known for its subtle tactile feedback and clean, crispy sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro offers a neutral sound signature and adaptability for various activities, the Duck switch provides a more gentle tactility and buttery feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star Duck, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Gold Red Pro.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, the housing materials in the bottom housing differ between the Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star Duck. While the Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, the Duck retains a polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast results in different sound profiles and typing experiences for each switch. The impact of the bottom housing material is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro and SP-Star Duck exhibit similarities and differences in their housing materials, particularly in the top and bottom housings. Both switches benefit from using polycarbonate in the top housing to create a clear, sharp, and resonant sound profile. However, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs less sound. The combination of these housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch, offering users the opportunity to customize their mechanical keyboards based on their sound and feel preferences.
Weight
Comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Duck's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Duck is heavier with 58 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's unavailable bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, the Gold Red Pro would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for long periods of time, while the Duck would cater to those who enjoy a more substantial and heavier typing feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to choose according to their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Duck switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Duck switch being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Gold Red Pro for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can provide a faster response time. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may prefer the SP-Star Duck for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. Its neutral sound signature makes it suitable for any environment, whether it be for gaming or office work. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch produces a clean and crispy sound, perfect for those looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience. The Duck switch also offers a mild and buttery feel, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer a versatile typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro excelling in its adaptability and the Duck switch providing a more subtle tactile feel. While the sound profiles differ slightly, both switches have a neutral characteristic, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Whether you choose the Gold Red Pro for its thocky sound and seamless typing experience or the Duck switch for its gentle tactile feel and clean sound profile, you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will boil down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a smooth and refined typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its versatility and adaptability make it suitable for various typing settings, whether it be for work or play. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be the perfect fit. With a gentle tactility and a medium bottom out force, these switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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