TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both offer unique characteristics that cater to a variety of preferences. The Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility, featuring a smooth and effortless press that appeals to both casual and experienced typists alike. With a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being unobtrusive and engaging, it effortlessly adapts to different environments, whether you are gaming, working in an office, or simply typing for leisure. In contrast, the WS POM+ takes the experience up a notch with its all-POM construction, delivering a deep, satisfying "thock" sound that many enthusiasts find irresistible. Its buttery-smooth keystrokes provide an extra layer of luxury that heightens the overall typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches are linear and cater to ease of use, they each bring their own distinctive flair to the table. 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
55g
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
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, there are some notable differences that significantly affect their sound profiles. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which allows it to resonate more clearly when a key is released. Moreover, its translucency makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, emphasizing the visual aesthetic alongside the auditory experience. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM top housing that offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. While still providing an enjoyable auditory experience, the POM material does not resonate as brightly as polycarbonate, resulting in a different character to the sound produced.
Moving to the bottom housings, the TTC Gold Red Pro opts for nylon, a material traditionally favored in mechanical switches. This nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounder and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound and minimizes sharpness. On the other hand, the WS POM+ uses a POM bottom housing, which also generates a deeper and more muted sound similar to its top housing. Interestingly, both switches share a tendency towards a subdued auditory output in their respective bottom housings. While the Gold Red Pro brings a fuller sound, the POM bottom of the WS POM+ emphasizes a more distinct tonal quality despite being relatively mellower.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches leads to distinct auditory experiences despite some similarities. The TTC Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top creates a signature sharpness that is balanced by the fuller body of its nylon bottom, yielding a unique dichotomy in sound when the switch is activated. In contrast, the WS POM+'s use of POM for both the top and bottom evens out the sound profile further to a muted, more cohesive response. While the approaches differ, both switches exemplify how thoughtful material choices can lead to satisfying results, catering to different preferences in switch feel and sound. Users looking for a sharper, more resonant sound may gravitate towards the Gold Red Pro, while those seeking a deeper, rounder sound will likely prefer the WS POM+.
Weight
Comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch reveals distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Gold Red Pro features an actuation force of 43 grams, while the WS POM+ requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This makes the Gold Red Pro the lighter option, potentially more suitable for users who want to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the WS POM+ provides a stronger push feel with its heavier actuation force, catering to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Gold Red Pro is unknown, while the WS POM+ has a reported bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light. This further emphasizes the differences between the two switches; users selecting the WS POM+ can expect a firmer bottoming out experience compared to the uncertainty surrounding the Gold Red Pro. Overall, choosing between these switches will depend on the user's preference for either lighter or heavier actuation forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Gold Red Pro switch may provide a more significant tactile feedback during key presses, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes. Conversely, the WS POM+ switch’s shorter travel distance could be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate action with each keystroke. Ultimately, if you prioritize a swift and responsive feel, the WS POM+ would be the preferable choice, while those who appreciate deeper, more engaging key presses may lean towards the Gold Red Pro.
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 Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch can be characterized as neutral, best described as thocky and low-pitched, which delivers a rich and satisfying sound without being overly aggressive or disruptive. This makes it a versatile option suitable for a variety of environments, whether you’re gaming, typing at work, or simply enjoying a leisurely session. The well-balanced auditory experience means it won't draw unwanted attention, making it an excellent choice for shared spaces. In comparison, the sound qualities of the WS POM+ switch are currently unknown, but it is important to note that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro offers a polished and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and a mild, subtle resistance. This makes it approachable for users of all skill levels, as the gentle feedback allows for comfortable typing without fatigue. The refined finish of the switch enhances the tactile engagement and reduces friction, resulting in an enjoyable keystroke. Unfortunately, the tactile characteristics of the WS POM+ remain undisclosed, leaving a gap in our understanding of how its feel compares to the Gold Red Pro.
In summary, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is designed to cater to a wide audience with its adaptable sound and refined feel, making it suitable for both casual and professional use. While its auditory characteristics provide a balanced experience, the lack of information on the sound and touch capabilities of the WS POM+ switch prevents a direct comparison. However, users can still expect a quality experience from either switch, particularly if they prioritize the versatile qualities of the Gold Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice may boil down to personal preference in both sound and feel, with each switch offering distinct yet potentially satisfying experiences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches, you should consider your specific typing preferences and environment. If you’re seeking a versatile switch that offers a smooth, polished experience for a variety of uses—from gaming to office work—the TTC Gold Red Pro is an excellent choice. Its low-pitched, thocky sound and mild resistance make it approachable for users of all levels, providing a tranquil yet satisfying typing experience that won’t disturb those around you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a deep sound profile and a buttery-smooth keystroke, the WS POM+ may be more to your liking. Its medium-light bottom out force offers a satisfying tactile feedback and a unique auditory experience, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound while typing. Ultimately, the choice boils down to whether you want a widely adaptable switch or one that delivers a more specialized auditory and tactile experience, attuned to your typing style and setting.
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