TTC Gold Red vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry MX Black. On one hand, the Gold Red linear switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Their snappy sound profile adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, Cherry has further perfected their iconic MX Black switches, incorporating new Hyperglide tooling for a classic textured smoothness. Typing on these switches elicits a familiar deep sound profile. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry MX Black switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their advantages, the choice between them depends on one's preference for a sharper or deeper sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Red and the MX Black switches utilize nylon as their material. This results in a similar typing experience, as nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon. Therefore, whether using the Gold Red or the MX Black, users can expect a similar typing experience with a focus on depth and fullness in the sound produced.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and the bottom. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing's impact will be more evident when releasing a key. Both the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red and the nylon top housing of the MX Black contribute to the overall sound profile, with the former emphasizing clarity and resonance and the latter providing a deeper and fuller sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Gold Red has a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams, while the MX Black requires a heavier force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, in terms of bottoming out, the Gold Red requires a force of 50 grams, while the MX Black necessitates a more substantial 80 grams.
Considering weight is important, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Gold Red switch appealing, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial and resistant key press may lean towards the MX Black switch with its heavier forces.
Although the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, both options provide distinct advantages depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, while the Gold Red offers a lighter touch, the MX Black provides a heavier and more prominent typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the exact same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel with no tactile feedback or audible clicks. Therefore, whether you choose the Gold Red or the MX Black, you can expect similar results and a consistent typing experience in terms of the travel distance.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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. When pressed, these switches produce a deep, rich sound similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud." This adds a satisfying touch to your typing experience without being overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is also described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. While the specific sound characteristics of the MX Black switch are not mentioned, it is safe to assume that it also provides a pleasing typing sound with a deep tone.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience. It has a gentle resistance that falls in the light-medium level, making it approachable for most users. The smoothness of these switches enhances the overall typing feel, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Gold Red switch has a refined finish, resulting in a sleek and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured and stiff. The textured characteristic refers to noticeable friction when these switches are pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others might prefer a smoother typing experience. The MX Black switch also requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, making it a stiffer option that requires more force when typing.
Based on the available information, both the TTC Gold Red and Cherry MX Black linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red switch provides a thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience. It also offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced resistance. Alternatively, the MX Black switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While the specific sound characteristics of the MX Black switch are unknown, it is likely to provide a pleasant typing sound. It also has a textured feel that may appeal to some users, along with a stiffer resistance that requires more force when typing.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth and refined typing experience, both the TTC Gold Red and Cherry MX Black switches provide great options. The Gold Red switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience, with a light-medium level of resistance, a thocky low-pitched sound, and a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel. The Cherry MX Black switch, with its new Hyperglide tooling, offers a classic textured smoothness, along with a low-pitched sound profile and a slightly stiffer resistance. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style.
If you prefer a light typing experience with a smooth feel and modest sound profile, the TTC Gold Red switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches offer a buttery smooth feel and a light-medium level of resistance. The snappy sound profile adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. The Gold Red switch also has a thocky and low-pitched sound, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a classic textured smoothness, the Cherry MX Black switch is a good option. With a bottom out force of 80 grams, these switches provide a more pronounced and tactile feel. The deep sound profile adds to the typing experience. The MX Black switch has a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Consider your preferences for typing force, sound, and feel when making your decision. Choose the TTC Gold Red switch if you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience with a snappy and low-pitched sound. Opt for the Cherry MX Black switch if you prefer a heavier and more tactile typing experience with a deep and low-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on what best suits your individual typing preferences.
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