TTC Gold Red vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two switches that stand out are the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh Sage. The Gold Red is renowned for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. This switch offers a snappy sound profile, adding just the right amount of personality without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a distinct clicky typing experience that is both invigorating and sharp. With a refreshingly sharp clickiness and a heavier weight, the Sage switch delivers a satisfying tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Red Linear

Kailh Sage Clicky

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh Sage switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer plastic composition absorbs more sound. This results in a rounder and duller sound when typing on the switches. Therefore, despite the slight variation in the brand, the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing leads to similar sound characteristics in both switches.

However, it is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that despite using the same housing materials, the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh Sage may produce slightly different sound profiles during key presses and releases. Users will experience the distinct characteristics of the bottom housing when typing, feeling a more pronounced impact, while the top housing will contribute to the sound heard when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches share similar housing materials, their respective sound profiles may still have subtle differences.

In summary, the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh Sage switches both employ polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. These choices result in comparable sound profiles, with the polycarbonate creating a sharp and crisp sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting, and the nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound. However, the distinction between the top and bottom housings means that users may notice slight variations in the sound produced during typing on the switches and when keys are released. Overall, though, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light in comparison. On the other hand, the Sage switch's actuation force is currently unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy weight.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red switch provides a smooth and effortless key press, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This light actuation force is also beneficial for gamers who may require rapid keystrokes during intense gaming sessions.

In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing experience with its heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a stronger push feel, potentially enhancing the typing experience for individuals who prefer a more substantial feedback while typing.

While the actuation force for the Sage switch is not known, its heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require a relatively stronger force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Gold Red switch's lighter actuation force. However, it is important to note that the actuation force can vary depending on the specific switch variant.

Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. Those looking for a lighter and smoother typing experience may opt for the Gold Red switch, while individuals seeking a more tactile and substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Sage switch.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Gold Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm.

It is important to note that a travel distance of 4 mm is considered to be the more traditional option, while 3.6 mm is shallower. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent, particularly favored by gamers who desire faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, opting for the Sage with its shorter travel distance may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, such as the Gold Red. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This means that when the key is pressed and released, it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Gold Red switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it is suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as crunchy, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crispy autumn leaves. It provides a distinct clicky typing experience that adds a refreshing sharpness to each keypress. Comparatively, the Gold Red switch offers a more subdued and moderate sound, while the Sage switch offers a more pronounced and immersive auditory experience.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience. These switches have a gentle resistance with a light typing feel, making them approachable and suitable for most users. They also provide a silky and polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Gold Red switch's qualities fall in a safe and middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is invigorating and sharp. It offers pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation. The Sage switch's strong and crisp tactile bump is prominent, providing a distinctive and high-feedback intensity with each keypress.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, while the Sage switch offers a crunchy clicky typing experience with invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you desire a smooth and refined typing experience with a neutral sound, the Gold Red switch is a suitable choice. If you prefer a clicky and immersive typing experience with prominent tactile feedback, the Sage switch would be more fitting. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

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 switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a gentle and approachable feel, with a mild and subtle typing experience. The sound profile of the Gold Red switches is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, providing a deep and satisfying sound without being too loud or obtrusive.

On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy feel and sharp feedback, the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be the way to go. The Sage switches offer an invigorating and sharp tactile experience, providing a high level of feedback intensity and a snappy, reactive feel. The crunchy sound profile of the Sage switches adds a satisfying and crisp clickiness to your typing.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and gentle typing experience with a modest sound profile, the Gold Red switches are a solid option. However, if you prefer a clicky switch with a heavy feel and pronounced feedback, the Sage switches would be a better fit. Consider your typing needs and desired sound and feel when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Red Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more