TTC Gold Red vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and TTC Gold Silver both offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red provides a smooth typing experience with a light-medium resistance, perfect for those who prefer a subtle and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Gold Silver boasts rapid responsiveness and a shortened travel distance, ideal for users who seek quick and tactile feedback with each keystroke. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and TTC Gold Silver switches both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a more resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer properties. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This material is consistent between the two switches and will provide similar sound characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing, both the TTC Gold Red and TTC Gold Silver switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The nylon bottom housing is consistent between the two switches, ensuring a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the TTC Gold Red and TTC Gold Silver switches differ, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gold Silver. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gold Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams but no information available for the bottom out force. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Gold Silver for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Gold Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver switch. The difference might not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. A longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press, while a shorter travel distance may result in quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of feel you're looking for in your keyboard. Both switches offer their own benefits, so it's important to consider what you value most in a key switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver for $2.90.
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 and Gold Silver switches are described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, which means they both offer a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for various environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when choosing either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red switch is defined as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gold Silver switch is also described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a sleek and smooth typing experience with minimized resistance and gentle typing feel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing, making them suitable for prolonged use without fatigue.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red and Gold Silver linear switches offer exceptional typing experiences with their own unique characteristics. While the Gold Red provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a moderate level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Silver focuses on rapid responsiveness and a decisive bottom-out with a resonant sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, but rest assured, both switches will deliver a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red and Gold Silver linear switches, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the TTC Gold Red if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a touch of personality in the sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a light-medium level of resistance and a more neutral, low-pitched sound. On the other hand, choose the TTC Gold Silver if you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a decisive bottom-out with a resonant sound signature. This switch offers a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity, making it perfect for those seeking a switch with shortened travel and a polished, silky typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and desired level of responsiveness.
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