TTC Gold Red vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both offer unique qualities worth exploring. The Gold Red linear switches provide a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, while also offering a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switches present a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, coupled with a silky typing experience and a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Both switches also benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, the Gold Red's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings which are more likely to be made of polycarbonate. This allows for the RGB lighting to shine through and adds a visually appealing element to the switches. However, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Gold Red and Lightning Silver V3 impacts the overall sound experience when typing on the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red provides a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3. Typing on the Gold Red will elicit a deeper sound, while typing on the Lightning Silver V3 will have a sharper and crisper sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red and the Lightning Silver V3 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material creates a unique feel and sound for each switch. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound profile will determine which switch is the better fit for your typing needs. Both switches offer high-quality materials that enhance the overall typing experience, making them both solid options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams of force while the Lightning Silver V3 needs 60 grams, making the Gold Red the lighter option overall. This difference in weight may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3 for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide unique typing experiences, and users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and feedback despite the slight differences in force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Gold Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper press when typing. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 provides a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Gold Red being better suited for those who enjoy a more deliberate key press, while the Lightning Silver V3 is preferred by those looking for a quicker keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Gold Red offers a more neutral and bass-heavy sound, while the Lightning Silver V3 delivers a brighter and more percussive sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red switch is praised for its mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel with exceptionally smooth key travel. These switches maintain a light resistance while providing a refined and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is also described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches excel in delivering a seamless and comfortable typing feel, making them suitable choices for those seeking a buttery smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and more neutral sound profile with a light-medium resistance like the Gold Red or a sharper and more high-pitched sound like the Lightning Silver V3, both switches offer a level of quality and performance that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics that best suit your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a buttery smooth typing experience with a modest touch of personality, the Gold Red may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a clacky, high-pitched sound signature with a silky typing experience and vibrant RGB illumination, the Lightning Silver V3 could be the better option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel. Consider these aspects carefully before making your decision to ensure a satisfying keyboard experience.
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