TTC Gold Red vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type S both offer unique advantages. The Gold Red linear switches provide a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, perfect for those who prefer a subtle and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, with its 65g bottom-out, caters to individuals who enjoy a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Gold Red adds a touch of personality with its snappy sound profile, the Type S offers a more subdued sound signature. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type S switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Type S's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound with its softer material. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red is ideal for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Type S offers a more traditional look.
Both the Gold Red and the Type S switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housings. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Type S switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profile and typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red provides a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Type S creates a deep and full sound. Both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and muted sound profile across the board. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Gold Red also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Type S has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to reduce fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Gold Red switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Type S switch for a heavier and more satisfying typing experience. Regardless, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red and Gateron Type S linear switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of key feel and feedback. Both switches offer a smooth linear operation without any tactile bump or audible click during actuation. Therefore, whether you choose the TTC Gold Red or Gateron Type S linear switch, you can expect a consistent typing experience with a 4 mm 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 Gateron Type S 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
When it comes to sound, the Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched profile, creating a satisfying and deep sound with a neutral tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more subdued and neutral sound, which is dampened and subtle compared to most switches. Both switches lend themselves well to various environments and preferences, with the Gold Red offering a slightly more pronounced sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with subtle resistance and a polished finish for smooth key travel. These qualities make it approachable and suitable for most users. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not available. However, based on the sound description, it is likely that the Type S switch also offers a smooth and refined typing experience with a weightier keystroke for those who prefer a bit more heft.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Gold Red switch provides a snappy and low-pitched sound with a mild and silky typing experience, while the Type S switch may offer a more subdued sound and potentially a weightier keystroke. Depending on your preferences for sound profile and typing feel, either of these switches could enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're 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 for you. The snappy sound profile of these switches adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too overwhelming. However, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S linear switch with its 65g bottom-out force might be the better option. Ultimately, choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences and style to enhance your overall typing experience.
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