TTC Gold Red vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star RedBlue 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 SP-Star RedBlue are two options that stand out from the crowd. The Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. Its snappy sound profile adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are something special in their own right. They are particularly suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience and have a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches fall under the categories of being low-pitched, neutral, and mild, and are regarded as polished. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star RedBlue switches have several similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. So, in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting, both switches will provide similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Red utilizes a nylon material while the RedBlue uses a polycarbonate material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the RedBlue switch will contribute to its overall sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, matching that of its polycarbonate top housing.
What this means is that with the Gold Red switch, the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switch will reveal the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing's impact will be more prominent when you let go of a key. In contrast, the RedBlue switch will have a consistent sound profile throughout keypresses and releases, as both the top and bottom housing materials provide sharp and crisp characteristics.
In summary, the TTC Gold Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches share a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, they differ in the material used for the bottom housing, with the Gold Red featuring nylon for a deeper and fuller sound, while the RedBlue boasts polycarbonate for a consistent sharp and crisp sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, which is lighter compared to the RedBlue switch's unspecified actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red switch requires 50 grams of force, while the RedBlue switch demands 57 grams. This makes the Gold Red switch lighter in both actuation and bottom out force when compared to the RedBlue switch, which falls into the medium-light category for bottom out force. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gold Red switch, while those seeking a more substantial and heavier push feel might find the RedBlue switch more suitable. However, if similar results are desired, individuals can select both switches with an actuation force and bottom out force that would provide comparable outcomes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key, the sensation experienced will be similar for both switches. Their travel distances being equal means that users can expect consistent feedback and tactile response from these switches, resulting in a comparable typing experience.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switches have a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This means that when pressed, these switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." The sound is not overly loud or obtrusive, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed. Additionally, they are described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to the Gold Red switches. Overall, both switches have a relatively similar sound profile, providing a pleasant typing experience without being too ostentatious.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switches offer a mild and silky typing experience. These switches have a gentle resistance that is not too feather-light, resulting in a light-medium level of resistance. They are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing an overall silky typing experience. Moreover, the Gold Red switches are described as subtle, meaning they have a gentle resistance without being too pronounced, making them suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, the switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish, which enhances the typing experience by reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Similarly, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches also offer a mild typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone. They are polished, providing a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of feel, both switches offer similar qualities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Taking all available information into account, both the TTC Gold Red linear switches and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They provide a smooth typing experience, with a light-medium level of resistance that is approachable to most users. The sound profiles of both switches are described as low-pitched and thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, both switches are polished, resulting in a sleek and refined finish, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Overall, whether one chooses the Gold Red or the RedBlue switches, they can expect a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, accompanied by a low-pitched and thocky sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Gold Red linear switches would be an excellent choice. These switches offer a gentle typing experience and are described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a sleek and refined typing experience. They produce a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, which adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being overpowering. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches are perfect for you. These switches are also described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and approachable typing feel. They produce a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, which provides a satisfying and mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for the level of resistance and the sound profile you desire in your mechanical keyboard. So, consider your typing preferences and select the switch that best suits your needs.
Mentioned in this article
