TTC Gold Red vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Red and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro. The Gold Red is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, providing a snappy sound profile that adds personality without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch offering medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, making it a balanced option for those seeking a comfortable typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red and Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially useful for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this similar characteristic in their top housings, they differ in their bottom housings. The Gold Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro also uses a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
When comparing the two switches based on their housing materials, it can be noted that the Gold Red and Violet Gold Pro both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in each switch results in a balanced typing experience with distinct characteristics. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing contributes to a crisper sound upon key actuation, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound to create a deeper and fuller typing experience. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In terms of construction, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom housings of the TTC Gold Red and Dareu Violet Gold Pro provides a diversified typing experience for users. The bottom housing, typically made of nylon in both switches, affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing, made of polycarbonate, influences the sound when a key is released. This unique combination allows for a nuanced typing experience that balances sharpness and depth in sound profile. Overall, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel that users will experience while typing.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Gold Red requires slightly less force to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red has a heavier force of 50 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red may be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro may be more suited for those who prefer a heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.8 mm of the Violet Gold Pro. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Gold Red being on the longer end and the Violet Gold Pro slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, providing a deep and satisfying tone when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch also has a neutral sound signature, making it versatile and suitable for various environments. Both switches are considered to have a moderate sound profile overall, with the Gold Red leaning towards a more bass-heavy tone.
Moving onto the typing feel, the Gold Red switch is praised for its mild and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress. The subtle resistance of the switch ensures a comfortable typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. In comparison, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile experience with two distinct stages during keypress. This unique characteristic sets it apart from the smoother and more consistent feel of the Gold Red switch.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the TTC Gold Red linear switch excels in providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a snappy sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a linear switch with a mild resistance. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a balanced tactile typing experience with a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for users seeking a tactile switch with a light touch. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a smooth and lightly resistant typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Gold Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing style and preferences.
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