TTC Gold Red vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that deserve consideration are the TTC Gold Red and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both of which are linear switches. The Gold Red switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. It adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard with its snappy sound profile, without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch, like the dynamic duo Steph and Klay, is known for its special linear "speed" switches. These switches have a shorter activation and a long pole stem, which provide a great typing feel. Additionally, they offer a creamy sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and Jwick Splash Brothers switches share similar characteristics. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound profile by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which provides a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, the TTC Gold Red and Jwick Splash Brothers switches differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Gold Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that the bottom housing of the Gold Red switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch also employs a nylon bottom housing, which shares the same qualities as the Gold Red in terms of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the nylon material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the bottom housing of the Splash Brothers switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when using the switch.
In summary, while the polycarbonate top housing of both the TTC Gold Red and Jwick Splash Brothers switches provides similar benefits in terms of sound and aesthetics, their differing nylon bottom housings contribute to variations in the bottom-out sound and feel. Users can expect a sharper and crisper sound profile from the top housing, while the bottom housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding these distinctions can help individuals choose the switch that best suits their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it relatively light in terms of the force required. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 48 grams, also classifying it as light. In terms of weight, both switches can be considered lighter options, which is beneficial for users who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. While the Gold Red is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their light actuation forces. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may lean towards options with heavier forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Gold Red is considered more traditional, offering a satisfying amount of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the Splash Brothers appeals to gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the shorter option can provide a more responsive typing or gaming experience. However, it's worth noting that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer having a more hearty depth to your typing or gaming experience, selecting the switch with the longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, both options offer distinct benefits, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and desired typing or gaming style.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is best described as thocky, with a deep and satisfying sound that resembles a "thud" or "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. It also has a low-pitched tone, which adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to the sound. This neutral sound profile makes it suitable for most situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it offers a moderate and versatile sound that can accommodate various preferences. The specific sound signature is described as creamy, suggesting a smooth and pleasant tone when the keys are pressed.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild and silky typing experience. The mild characteristic means it provides a gentle and approachable feel for most users, without any pronounced quirks. The silky attribute indicates that the switch is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance and creating a seamless typing experience. Furthermore, the switch has a subtle resistance, striking a balance between being lightweight and providing a slight amount of feedback. Overall, the feel of the TTC Gold Red switch is polished, offering a sleek and refined typing experience.
Similarly, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a mild typing experience, which is gentle and accessible to a wide range of users. It is also described as snappy, meaning it is highly responsive and lively due to its longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the switch has a bouncy characteristic, giving it a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that provides a satisfying rebound when keys are pressed. Like the Gold Red, the Splash Brothers switch also has a subtle resistance and a polished feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, it is clear that both the TTC Gold Red and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer subjective qualities that enhance the typing experience. In terms of sound, the Gold Red provides a thocky and low-pitched profile, while the Splash Brothers offers a creamy sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile for various settings. In terms of feel, the Gold Red offers a mild and silky typing experience, while the Splash Brothers is snappy and bouncy. Both switches have a subtle resistance and a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel. While there are differences in sound and feel, both switches provide a positive and enjoyable typing experience, catering to different preferences. So, if you are looking for a similar outcome in terms of sound and feel, you can expect to achieve comparable results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a modest touch of personality in terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is the way to go. It offers a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Gold Red provides a mild, silky, subtle, and polished feel, guaranteeing a gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something special and reminiscent of the dynamic duo, Steph and Klay, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch should be your pick. These switches boast a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. The creamy sound signature adds an extra layer of satisfaction to your typing experience. Similarly to the Gold Red, the Splash Brothers also have a neutral sound profile and offer a mild, subtle, and polished feel. However, they have the added benefit of being described as snappy and bouncy, providing super responsiveness and a lively, rebound-like feedback sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch depends on your personal preferences. Both switches excel in their own ways, offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and desires. Whether you prioritize smoothness and a touch of personality or a special and lively feel, you can't go wrong with either of these switches.
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