TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy contenders are the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Bsun Taichi, both of which fall into the category of linear switches. The TTC Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility and ease of use, offering a seamless typing experience that caters to a wide range of user preferences. Its neutral sound profile strikes a balance, making it suitable for various environments, be it gaming, office work, or casual typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi entices users with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to its long-pole stem, extended springs, and robust design, which ensures a smooth keystroke with added stability. While the Gold Red Pro is ideal for those seeking a quiet yet efficient switch, the Bsun Taichi appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback with added dimensions of tactile satisfaction. 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
40g
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
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Bsun Taichi, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a similar sound profile. The use of polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, a characteristic shared by both models. This is partly due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top is advantageous for users looking to incorporate RGB lighting, allowing light to pass through effectively and create vibrant visual effects. Thus, users of both switches can expect similar auditory experiences and aesthetic benefits when utilizing RGB without losing sound clarity.
On the other hand, the bottom housing presents a contrasting material choice. Both the Gold Red Pro and Taichi employ nylon for their bottom housing, which is celebrated for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon dampens sounds more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder auditory effect. When a user types on these switches, the combination of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom delivers a complex interplay of sound qualities—while the top housing contributes to the sharper notes when a key is released, the nylon bottom enriches the overall experience with a warmer, more muted sound upon bottoming out. This harmonious balance in materials ensures that even with different top and bottom housings, users will enjoy a well-rounded acoustic performance.
In summary, while both the TTC Gold Red Pro and Bsun Taichi share identical materials in their top and bottom housings, the distinct qualities of each help shape the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate tops contribute to clarity and brightness, while the nylon bottoms lend depth and warmth to the sound profile. Regardless of the specific model, users can expect a blend of sharper and fuller sounds when typing, enhancing the tactile sensation while manipulating these enjoyable mechanical switches. This congruence in material selection suggests that typists can achieve similar results in responsiveness and auditory satisfaction across both models, making either a viable choice depending on personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation forces. The TTC Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Bsun Taichi features a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This difference means that the Taichi switch provides a marginally easier keystroke, which could appeal to users who require less force for typing or gaming over extended periods. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have unknown measurements, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison on that front. However, given that the Taichi switch is lighter in actuation force, it may also contribute to a less strenuous bottoming out experience if both were to have similar designs. Thus, for those who prefer a lighter feel, the Bsun Taichi linear switch might be the better option, while those who appreciate a more substantial push may lean towards the TTC Gold Red Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Gold Red Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Taichi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Taichi switch will provide a faster response time due to its reduced travel distance, making it a preferable choice for gamers who favor quick key actuation. Conversely, the Gold Red Pro offers a more substantial depth, which may appeal to those who appreciate the tactile feedback of a deeper press. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preferences for responsiveness versus a more traditional, hearty feel when typing or gaming.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 presents a neutral sound profile that balances well in various environments. It produces a thocky and low-pitched tone that delivers a satisfying deep thud upon actuation, making it ideal for users who appreciate a rich auditory feedback without being overly pronounced or distracting. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch, while noted for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, suggests a more pronounced auditory experience driven by its long-pole stem design. This high-pitched sound can create a distinct typing atmosphere that may be especially appealing to certain users, although it might not blend as seamlessly into quieter settings compared to the Gold Red Pro.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro boasts an exceptionally smooth typing experience characterized by its polished and silky nature. This results in reduced friction and effortless key travel, with a mild and subtle resistance that allows for comfortable, extended typing sessions. The tactile experience is designed to cater to a broad audience, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. On the other hand, the specifics regarding the feel of the Bsun Taichi switch remain unknown. However, given its construction—featuring an extended spring and a walled stem—one might expect a course that enhances smoothness and stability during typing.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a well-rounded combination of sound and smoothness, along with its neutral auditory feedback, the Bsun Taichi distinguishes itself with its high-pitched sound which might appeal to a different subset of users. The Gold Red Pro is versatile enough for various scenarios, ensuring a satisfying typing experience, while the Taichi may cater to those who enjoy a distinct auditory flair. Depending on personal preference, both switches provide unique yet enjoyable experiences, with the Gold Red Pro being particularly suitable for more varied environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Bsun Taichi linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you value versatility and ease of use across different typing scenarios, the Gold Red Pro is your best option. Its polished and silky feel ensures a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, making it an excellent choice for a blend of gaming, office work, and casual typing. Furthermore, its neutral sound profile accommodates a variety of environments, ensuring you won’t disturb those around you. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more unique auditory experience along with exceptional smoothness and stability, the Bsun Taichi linear switch may be the way to go. The enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound adds a distinctive character to your typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate a rich auditory feedback paired with a refined performance. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what aspects of the typing experience you prioritize, whether it’s the versatility and neutrality of the Gold Red Pro or the enchanting sound and smoothness of the Taichi.
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