TTC Gold Red vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a reliable mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the TTC Gold Red and the Keygeek Keylin, both linear switches that promise an exceptional typing experience. The TTC Gold Red is celebrated for its buttery smooth feel and light to medium resistance, striking a balance that caters to both casual typists and avid gamers alike. Its understated sound profile—described as thocky, low-pitched, and subtle—adds just a hint of character without overwhelming the user. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin leverages advanced molding techniques to provide a premium experience characterized by rich acoustics and extraordinary smoothness, appealing to those seeking unparalleled tactile satisfaction. While both switches champion smooth operation and low noise, their distinct characteristics—like the tone of the Gold Red’s thocky sound versus the Keylin’s rich acoustics—can significantly influence a user's preference. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Keygeek Keylin switches showcase striking contrasts in sound profiles that stem from the differences in their top housings. The TTC Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which accentuates clarity and resonance—a crucial aspect for those who prioritize auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Keylin employs a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a more rounded audio experience. Consequently, the choice of material in the top housing plays a significant role in how the switches will sound during use, with the Gold Red favoring a brighter, more pronounced audio output compared to the mellow warmth of the Keylin.
When examining the bottom housing materials, both the TTC Gold Red and the Keygeek Keylin utilize nylon, creating a consistent sound profile at this level. Nylon’s classic status as a switch housing material means that both switches will yield a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out, as the softer plastic absorbs sound and mitigates sharpness. Despite the differences in their top housings, the presence of nylon in both bottoms ensures that users will experience a similar base sound characteristic. This uniformity suggests that while the switches might feel and sound different upon actuation and release, their bottom-out experiences could be quite comparable, making them appealing to those who enjoy a more cushioned typing experience.
Overall, the combined impact of the housing materials between these two switches highlights the intricate interplay between the top and bottom housings. In the TTC Gold Red, the stiff polycarbonate top contrasts with the nylon bottom, yielding a distinctive sound profile that is both crisp and rich at the bottom-out action. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin, with its nylon top and bottom, creates a cohesive auditory experience that leans towards a smooth and rounded typing sound. Thus, while users may appreciate the richness of the Keylin and the clarity of the Gold Red, the tactile experiences will ultimately be shaped by how each housing material's properties contribute to the overall performance of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Keylin features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means the Keylin switch requires less force to actuate a keystroke, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Gold Red, although still classified as light, has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer push feel. Overall, while both switches allow for a comfortable typing experience, the Keylin will be better suited for those prioritizing a lighter touch, whereas the Gold Red offers a bit more resistance for those who appreciate a stronger keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Gold Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keylin has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Gold Red provides a deeper press, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Keylin's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance may cater to gamers and those seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. While both switches offer distinct experiences due to their differing travel distances, they will both ultimately fulfill their primary purpose of registering key presses, ensuring functionality in a keyboard. Therefore, if you favor a more responsive gaming experience, the Keylin would be the ideal choice, whereas the Gold Red would better suit those who appreciate a deeper and more grounded 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 Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red switches offer a delightful typing experience with their thocky, low-pitched tones. This provides a satisfying auditory feedback that strikes a balance, making them suitable for various environments, whether you’re in an office or at home. This neutral sound profile, characterized by its rich depth and moderate resonance, contributes to an enjoyable typing experience without being overly distracting to those around you. In comparison, the Keygeek Keylin switches are noted for their rich acoustics, although specific descriptors for their sound quality aren’t provided. Given that sound perception can vary widely depending on additional factors such as the keyboard build and keycap materials, it’s reasonable to evaluate that the Keylin could also offer an engaging sound experience, similar to the Gold Red, but the exact qualities remain unspecified.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red switches shine with a mild and silky texture that ensures a smooth typing action. Their gentle resistance allows for an approachable user experience, making them an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. Additionally, the polished finish contributes to reduced friction and a refined overall experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin switches promise a premium typing experience with exceptional smoothness. However, without further descriptors, it’s difficult to say precisely how they compare in terms of feel to the Gold Red switches. That said, if the Keylin delivers on its promise of smoothness, users may find a similarly enjoyable tactile sensation, though the nuances between the two are still unknown.
In summary, both the TTC Gold Red and Keygeek Keylin switches have qualities that cater to a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. The Gold Red is characterized by a buttery feel and a thocky sound profile that suits a variety of environments. In contrast, the Keylin aims for a premium feel and rich acoustics, although specifics about its sound and tactile characteristics remain uncertain. Overall, you can expect rewarding results with either switch, depending on personal preference and desired auditory and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, it’s essential to consider your specific preferences and typing environment. If you value a light touch and desire a buttery smooth typing experience that balances well with a subtle yet satisfying sound profile, the Gold Red could be your ideal pick. Its 50-gram bottom-out force and low-pitched, thocky sound make it a versatile choice for both casual typing and gaming, especially in shared spaces where you might want to keep noise levels manageable. On the other hand, if you're looking for an elevated typing experience with a focus on rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, the Keylin is worth considering. With its slightly lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, this switch is designed to offer a premium feel, perfect for those who appreciate a more refined auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a more neutral, approachable sound and feel (TTC Gold Red) or a luxurious typing experience with enhanced acoustics (Keygeek Keylin).
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