TTC Gold Red vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the Durock T1 offer distinct typewriting experiences. The Gold Red, a linear switch, is renowned for its buttery smooth feel and light-medium resistance. This switch provides a snappy sound profile, adding a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too flashy. On the other hand, the T1, a tactile switch, stands out for its remarkable typing comfort. With a medium bump when pressed, it offers a satisfying tactile feedback reminiscent of raindrops gently falling on a window. While these general qualities make both switches appealing, let's explore further to determine the ideal choice for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and the Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with clear, vibrant sound and the option for RGB lighting, both the Gold Red and the T1 with their polycarbonate top housing would provide a similar experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gold Red and the T1 feature nylon as the material of choice. This material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether you choose the Gold Red or the T1, you can expect a switch with a rich and satisfying typing sound due to the nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housing, the characteristics of each material will affect different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. When pressing down on either the Gold Red or the T1, the qualities of the bottom housing will be most prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a stronger impact on the sound. However, as both switches feature polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the overall experience and resulting sound will be similar between the two.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams, which is relatively light, while the T1's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams of force, which is also light, whereas the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing may gravitate towards the T1 switch, with its heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a more solid typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style. If one desires a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red switch offers a lower actuation force and bottom out force. Meanwhile, the T1 switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its potentially heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision based on their own comfort and typing needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience. Whether you choose the TTC Gold Red or the Durock T1, you can expect a similar level of performance in terms of switch 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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 sound profile, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. This low-pitched switch also features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Durock T1 tactile switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile as well, providing a similar bass-heavy and mellow tone. Overall, both switches have a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you will be using them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of the switches is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
As for feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild and silky typing experience. These switches are known for being exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They also have a subtle resistance while maintaining a light typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, the Gold Red switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is stepped in feel, meaning it has two stages in the keystroke. It provides a medium amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, making it an accented switch. Like the Gold Red, the T1 also has a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have their own unique qualities. The Gold Red provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. It has a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. Meanwhile, the T1 offers a super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window. Both switches have low-pitched sound profiles and neutral actuation force requirements, making them suitable for most users. The Gold Red switch is characterized by its mild, silky, and polished feel, while the T1 has a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Overall, if you are looking for a smooth linear switch with a snappy sound, the Gold Red is an excellent choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a comfortable feel and a sound that resembles rain, the T1 would be a great option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. The Gold Red switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the T1 has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red is a good choice, while the T1 provides a slightly heavier feel.
In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, the Gold Red switch is also described as thocky, contributing to a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. The T1 switch, on the other hand, is described as having a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience with a silky and polished finish. This results in a smooth and refined keystroke, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The T1 switch, on the other hand, provides a stepped tactile feel, meaning it has two stages of tactility. It is not as intense as a hypertactile switch but still offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming.
Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Whether you prefer a lighter or medium-heavy typing experience, a thocky or rain-like sound, or a smooth or stepped tactility, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have unique characteristics to offer. Consider your typing style, environment, and personal preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
