TTC Gold Red vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the TTC Gold Red and the Cherry MX Red. The Gold Red linear switches are revered for their buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, making them ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch. On the other hand, the MX Red from Cherry switches provides a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a more robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, with the Gold Red being described as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Silky', 'Subtle', 'Polished', while the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference and usage requirements. 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
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
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 Cherry MX Red switches differ significantly in terms of the materials used. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. While both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gold Red and Cherry MX Red switches use a nylon material. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the switches may still provide slightly different typing experiences due to variations in other factors such as spring weight and keycap material. However, overall, the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of both switches.
In terms of overall switch performance, the housing materials play a critical role in dictating the sound and feel of the switches. While the Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, the Cherry MX Red utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing. This results in differences in sound profiles between the two switches, with the Gold Red offering a crisper and sharper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the MX Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red is lighter in both aspects. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Gold Red will require less force to activate a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the MX Red. Some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Gold Red for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the MX Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can rest assured that they will get comparable results in terms of key feel and actuation distance. Overall, whether you choose the TTC Gold Red or the Cherry MX Red, you can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance of 4mm.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying auditory experience that is suitable for a variety of settings. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch also produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, adding a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing. Both switches offer a pleasant sound with their own unique characteristics, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience that is smooth and gentle on the fingers, making it approachable and suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, potentially offering a different tactile sensation that some users may prefer for a more distinct feel while typing. Overall, both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Red focusing on smoothness and ease of use, while the MX Red offers a textured feel for those who enjoy a bit of friction in their switches.
Considering the information provided, both the TTC Gold Red and Cherry MX Red linear switches offer their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red leans towards a smoother and more subtle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the MX Red provides a slightly different tactile sensation with a textured feel and thocky sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will boil down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and any additional factors such as keycap and keyboard choice. Whether you opt for the Gold Red or MX Red, you can expect a quality linear switch that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the ideal choice for you. Its light-medium resistance and thocky, low-pitched sound make for a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the MX Red might be more to your liking. It offers a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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