TTC Gold Red vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type L, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Gold Red is known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, providing a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron stands out for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out and offering a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both switches have their own categorizations, with the Gold Red being described as 'thocky', 'silky', and 'subtle', while the Type L is labeled as 'feathery', 'subdued', and 'easy-to-press'. When choosing between these switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type L switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound. While both materials have their own advantages, the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red would be better suited for users looking for a more high-pitched and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
On the other hand, both the Gold Red and the Type L switches use a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable as the top housing when typing, it still plays a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switch.
In terms of overall performance, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and Gateron Type L switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the softer nylon top housing of the Type L offers a deeper and fuller sound, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a more muted and rounded typing sound. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the housing materials used, demonstrating the importance of material selection in customizing keyboard switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we can see that the Type L is the lighter option overall. The TTC Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Gateron Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches are considered light in terms of force required, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Gold Red switch requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Type L switch. For users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Gold Red may be the better choice. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches are minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them the same in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key with either switch. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get consistent results and feedback when typing or gaming. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Red or the Type L, you can expect a consistent and smooth keypress experience due to their identical travel distances 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is described as neutral, providing a satisfying and mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch also has a neutral sound profile but is more subdued, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Both switches offer a pleasing typing sound that caters to different preferences, with the Gold Red leaning towards a deeper tone and the Type L offering a more subdued acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with a subtle resistance and polished finish for smooth key travel. These characteristics make for a gentle and refined typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Type L offers a light and effortless typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience with its responsive and low-impact nature.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red and Gateron Type L linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Red provides a smoother and more polished typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Type L offers a lighter and more effortless typing feel with a subdued sound signature. Depending on individual preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with slightly different nuances. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a neutral feel, the Gold Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter bottom out force and a subdued, neutral sound profile with a feathery, easy-to-press feel, the Type L switch might be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors like typing comfort, sound preference, and typing speed to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and priorities. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the switch that best suits your individual typing style and ergonomic needs.
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