TTC Gold Red vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the TTC Gold Red and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Gold Red is a linear switch that is renowned for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance. It offers a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile from Durock stands out for its unique tactile experience. It features a pronounced, yet balanced tactility, and has a jelly-like sound signature. While both switches have their merits, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and the Durock Medium Tactile both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their setup. Therefore, whether you choose the Gold Red or the Medium Tactile, you can expect similar sound characteristics and visual appeal when it comes to the top housing.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that whether you choose the Gold Red or the Medium Tactile, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and resonance of each keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience.
It is worth noting that while the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the two switches, the impact of each housing material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When you press down on either the Gold Red or the Medium Tactile, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the sound profile when you release a key will be more influenced by the top housing. So, while there may be differences in material, the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of these switches will be comparable.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red switch has a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams, meaning that it requires a gentle press to register a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch is unknown, making it difficult to determine how much force is needed for activation. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Red switch is 50 grams, indicating that it takes a slightly heavier touch to fully depress the key. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of resistance.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing may opt for the Gold Red switch. This switch would be suitable for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Medium Tactile switch with its heavier bottom out force might be more suitable. It is important to note that the unknown actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch leaves some uncertainty in comparing the initial pressure required to register a keystroke. Nevertheless, individuals desiring a similar result to the Gold Red switch can expect a similar tactile experience if they choose the Medium Tactile switch due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Whether you choose the Gold Red or the Medium Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using the switches.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
The TTC Gold Red linear switch is known for providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. When it comes to sound, these switches are described as thocky, meaning they produce a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, they have a low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This neutral switch is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes, whether you're a beginner or an advanced typist.
On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility. This particular flavor of tactile switch is accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. In terms of sound signature, these switches have a jelly-like sound profile, although more specific details are unknown. Like the Gold Red, the Medium Tactile switch is also described as mild, ensuring a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable.
Considering the available information, the Gold Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Gold Red provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, while offering a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch offers an accented tactility and a mild, stepped, and polished feel. Therefore, if you prefer a smoother and more subtle typing experience with a deeper sound, the Gold Red linear switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more pronounced and balanced tactility with an accented sound profile, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch would be a better fit. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, then the TTC Gold Red linear switch is a great choice for you. It offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The Gold Red switch also provides a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is an excellent option. It features an accented tactility, giving you a prominent yet not overwhelming tactile feedback. The Medium Tactile switch also offers a stepped feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. It has a jelly-like sound signature and a mild, polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a snappy sound, go for the Gold Red. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback with a unique sound signature, the Medium Tactile is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that suits your needs best.
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