TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro stand out as popular choices, each offering unique features to suit different preferences. The TTC Gold Red Pro is a linear switch that excels in versatility, providing a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is pleasing to the ears. This switch is suitable for a variety of settings, making it a great all-around option for gaming, office work, or casual typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch known for its medium tactility and light touch, offering a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both keyboards share this material for their top housing, they differ in the bottom housing material.
The Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic than polycarbonate, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics as the Gold Red Pro. While the bottom housing material may have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keyboard, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released.
In essence, both the Gold Red Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile for users. However, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housing, which affects the overall sound profile during typing. Despite these differences, both keyboards aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their choice of housing materials to cater to varying preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is 43 grams, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for both switches is unavailable. In terms of weight, the Gold Red Pro is lighter than the Violet Gold Pro, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro may be more desirable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel before the key reaches the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience. The travel distance of 3.8mm for both switches ensures a consistent feel and performance for users who prefer either linear or tactile switches. So, whether you choose the Gold Red Pro or the Violet Gold Pro, you can expect to receive comparable results in terms of travel distance.
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 Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch also features a neutral sound profile, offering a balanced typing experience with a medium tactility. Both switches cater to users looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. This switch offers a safe middle ground in terms of feel, appealing to a wide range of users. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is characterized as stepped, offering a tactile sensation that feels like it has two stages with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. While the Gold Red Pro focuses on delivering a sleek and gentle typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro aims to provide users with a nuanced tactile feedback during typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Red Pro excels in providing a versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile and polished feel, the Violet Gold Pro stands out with its balanced tactile feedback and stepped feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, users can expect similar levels of quality and satisfaction from both switches, ensuring a rewarding keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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