TTC Gold Red vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red and Gateron Mars both offer compelling options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Gold Red linear switches are celebrated for their buttery smooth typing experience and a delightful light-medium resistance, making them ideal for those who prefer a balanced feel while typing. Their low-pitched, thocky sound profile adds a subtle but charming character to your keyboard that doesn't overwhelm the senses. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switches take a different approach with their unique design, featuring a POK stem and a housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM. This innovative construction promises durability and consistent performance, making the Mars an attractive choice for gamers and typists seeking long-lasting reliability. While both switches are linear, offering an uninterrupted keystroke experience, they’re tailored to different preferences in feel and build quality. 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
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Mars switches, we find notable differences that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucence, which allows for a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly amplified when RGB lighting is utilized. In contrast, the Gateron Mars employs a nylon top housing, a more traditional choice in the mechanical keyboard world. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound better than the rigid polycarbonate, leading to a deeper and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Gold Red is tailored for clarity and brightness, the Mars caters to those who appreciate a more muted, softer sound.
The bottom housings of both switches also differ, with the Gold Red opting for nylon, while the Mars utilizes POM. Both materials are known for producing a fuller sound profile; however, their effects manifest differently. The nylon of the Gold Red contributes to a deeper, resonant sound, just like the bottom housing in the Mars, although the POM is known for its somewhat more unique and pleasing sound characteristics that are relatively more muted compared to nylon. Consequently, switching between these two options affects the overall typing experience, as the unique interplay of top and bottom housings influences the perception of sound and feel during typing.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Mars reflect their designed auditory outcomes, yet they may yield similar results in certain aspects. For instance, if one were to optimize the typing experience by balancing the qualities of each housing, it's possible to achieve a well-rounded auditory result. Although the Gold Red offers a brighter and sharper response compared to the Mars's muted depth, the overall typing experience can still be satisfying, particularly if combined with the right switches and a well-crafted keyboard setup. Thus, while the materials alone shape the characteristics, the balance between them offers a spectrum of auditory opportunities for users.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Gateron Mars linear switch, there are some notable differences in actuation force. The Gold Red features an actuation force of 43 grams, making it a lighter switch, while the Mars has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Gold Red may be the better choice. However, the bottom out force of the Gateron Mars switch is unknown, which leaves a gap in the comparison regarding the overall tactile experience when bottoming out. The Gold Red has a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a definitive tactile feedback when fully pressed down. Overall, while the Gold Red is the lighter option, the lack of information regarding the Mars' bottom out force limits a complete assessment of its performance. Thus, if the trade-off between actuation force and potentially unknown bottom out characteristics is essential for your typing or gaming style, this distinction becomes particularly significant.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, a noticeable difference arises. The Gold Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mars features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that the Gold Red offers a more traditional and hearty typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a deeper press. Meanwhile, the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Gateron Mars aligns with the trend toward faster response times, often favored by gamers seeking immediate feedback. Therefore, potential users must consider their preferences: if a deeper, more pronounced keystroke is desirable, the Gold Red would be the better choice; however, if quick and snappy responses are prioritized, then the Mars would excel.
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 Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that is characterized by a deep, rich tonal quality. This offers a satisfying auditory feedback that resonates well with typists who appreciate a subtle yet pronounced sound without being overly loud. The neutrality of the sound further enhances its versatility, making it suitable whether you're in a home office or a shared workspace. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron Mars switches remain unspecified, which leaves open to interpretation how they might compare in this regard. However, it is essential to remember that sound can also be influenced by other factors like your choice of keyboard board and keycaps, so users may find that both switches can create a pleasant acoustic environment when appropriately configured.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch is exceptionally smooth, offering a mild and silky typing experience. This switch type boasts a gentle resistance that is appealing to a broad range of users, providing a polished typing action with minimized friction and key travel resistance. The subtle nuances of the Gold Red's feel make it approachable for both newcomers and more seasoned typists alike. In contrast, the specifications for the feel of the Gateron Mars switches are not detailed, which makes it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, the Gold Red's established profile indicates that it is designed for a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the TTC Gold Red linear switch stands out for its thocky sound and polished, silky feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch lacks detailed insights into both its sound and feel characteristics, leaving potential buyers curious but uninformed. If you favor the type of experience offered by the Gold Red, you can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing performance. However, for the Mars switch, more information is needed to understand how it might fit into your personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between TTC Gold Red and Gateron Mars linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preference and specific typing needs. If you desire a switch that offers a smooth, light, and polished typing experience along with a subtle thocky sound that adds character without overwhelming your workspace, then the TTC Gold Red is an excellent choice. It's especially well-suited for those who value a balance between a comfortable typing feel and an approachable sound profile, making it ideal for both work and casual use. On the other hand, if you are intrigued by innovative designs and are looking for a switch that utilizes unique materials and construction, the Gateron Mars might pique your interest. Although specific feel descriptors and sound profiles for Mars switches are not highlighted, their innovative aspects may appeal to enthusiasts who prioritize new technology in mechanical keyboards. Whether you prioritize smoothness, sound, or innovative design, understanding these factors will help you make a more informed decision that suits your typing style and environment.
Mentioned in this article
