TTC Gold Red vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch. The Gold Red offers a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, along with a snappy sound profile that adds character without being overbearing. On the other hand, the Hutt switch features a medium-heavy spring and a pronounced tactile bump, providing a distinct and enjoyable typing feel with a balanced sound profile. While the Gold Red is more categorized as 'thocky', 'low-pitched', 'neutral', 'mild', 'silky', 'subtle', and 'polished', the Hutt switch is described as 'snappy', 'invigorating', 'sharp', 'accented', and 'resonant'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red and Bsun Hutt utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. The similarities between the top housing materials of the Gold Red and Hutt suggest that users can expect comparable sound and aesthetic results from both switches when it comes to their top housing.
On the other hand, the Gold Red features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastic materials. Similarly, the Bsun Hutt also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, indicating that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches when it comes to their bottom housing.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and Bsun Hutt are the same, the differences in their bottom housing materials provide unique typing experiences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials impact the sound and feel when using the switches. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key. Users can choose between the Gold Red and Hutt based on their preference for a crisper sound profile with a polycarbonate top housing or a fuller sound profile with a nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, there are slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Hutt tactile switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 49 grams. In terms of weight, both switches fall on the lighter side, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Gold Red switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a bit more resistance compared to the Hutt switch. However, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with minimal force required for actuation, ensuring a comfortable and responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly heavier or lighter typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Red offers a slightly longer travel distance than the Hutt, which may provide a more traditional key feel. However, the Hutt's slightly shorter travel distance could potentially offer quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and responsiveness. If you prefer a more traditional and deeper key press, the Gold Red may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Hutt may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits, and the decision between the two will depend on individual preference.
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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving off a deep and rich sound when pressed. This sound is neutral, suitable for most users and environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch provides a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Gold Red offering a more neutral and mellow sound, while the Hutt delivers a more immersive and resonant typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with a subtle and polished finish for smooth key travel. These switches offer a gentle resistance and a refined feel, making them approachable for most users. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offers a snappy and invigorating feel, with a sharp and accented tactile bump that provides a distinct feedback with each keypress. The Hutt switch is designed to be super responsive and immersive, offering a more pronounced tactile sensation compared to the smoother Gold Red switches.
Overall, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, users should consider their preferences for sound and feel. The Gold Red switch provides a smoother and more neutral typing experience, with a mellow and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt switch offers a more immersive and resonant typing experience, with a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches excel in different aspects, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gold Red linear switch and the Hutt tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a smoother and more subtle typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a neutral, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Red switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a heavier spring, pronounced tactile bump, and a resonant, sharp sound profile, the Hutt switch may be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and level of tactile feedback.