TTC Gold Red vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, the Gold Red stands out for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance level. Its snappy sound profile adds a touch of personality without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches offer a unique material blend with Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, providing a creamy and lightweight feel. While the Gold Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Keygeek Raw is described as 'Textured' and 'Subtle'. Ultimately, both switches have their distinct features and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend top housing that is exclusive to their switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw incorporates a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing for a different sound experience.
While the TTC Gold Red and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they each offer unique benefits that cater to individual preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red is ideal for those looking for a sharper and more resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Meanwhile, the Nylon & UPE blend top housing of the Keygeek Raw switches provides an exclusive sound experience that sets it apart from other switches on the market. Both switches showcase how housing materials can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper sound, while its nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile. In comparison, the Keygeek Raw switches boast an exclusive blend of Nylon & UPE for the top housing and UMPE & Si for the bottom housing, resulting in a unique sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper and resonant sound or a deeper and fuller tone when typing, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different sound preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Keygeek Raw is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. The Gold Red requires a lighter touch to activate a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel accordingly.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, the Gold Red has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Keygeek Raw has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Gold Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Keygeek Raw linear switch. The difference may not be significant, but it can affect the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Keygeek Raw, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the TTC Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the user's desired typing experience.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. This switch's neutral sound makes it versatile for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile, ensuring a moderate and well-balanced auditory feedback. The actual sound you experience with either switch will also be influenced by factors like your keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with a subtle and polished feel that appeals to a wide range of users. The smoothness and gentle resistance of these switches make typing effortless and enjoyable. Conversely, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a textured feel that adds a bit of friction when typing, along with a mild and subtle resistance suitable for shared spaces. The Keygeek Raw switch, being unlubricated, allows enthusiasts to customize the typing experience to their preference.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience with a deeper sound, the Gold Red switch might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit of texture in your typing feel and a more customizable lubrication option, the Keygeek Raw switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics, ensuring that you'll get quality performance regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red and Keygeek Raw linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a unique blend of materials that provide a creamy yet lightweight typing experience, the Keygeek Raw linear switch would be a suitable option. Additionally, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound profile and a mild, silky typing feel, the Gold Red switch would be more aligned with your preferences. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mix of textured and subtle typing feel, the Keygeek Raw switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure you choose the switch that best fits your needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
