TTC Gold Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, making it ideal for those who prefer a snappy sound profile without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron boasts innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure for silent typing, delivering unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that appeal to different users; 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through the housing. The use of polycarbonate in both switches highlights their commitment to providing a premium sound experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gold Red and Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite having different top housings, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches showcases a dedication to delivering a satisfying sound experience for users, further enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Gold Red and Zero Degree 0°, the qualities of each housing material provide unique contributions to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings ensures a well-rounded typing experience for users, blending sharpness and crispness with depth and fullness to create a harmonious balance between the two housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has an unknown bottom out force. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, which may be preferred by those who want to type for extended periods without straining their fingers. However, the Gold Red switch may provide a slightly softer touch due to its lighter actuation force, while the Zero Degree 0° switch may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Zero Degree has a shorter travel distance compared to the TTC Gold Red. The traditional 4.0mm travel distance of the Gold Red provides a more substantial depth when pressing down on the keys, while the 3.6mm travel distance of the Zero Degree offers a shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial depth may opt for the Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding 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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Gold Red linear switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, providing a deep, rich tone with a moderate actuation force suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is praised for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the sound characteristics of the Zero Degree 0° switch are unknown, it is expected to provide a quiet typing experience due to its noise-reducing features.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red switch offers a mild, silky, subtle, and polished typing experience, with a gentle resistance and smooth key travel that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch remains unknown, but based on its design features like self-padding and dual-rail structure, it is likely to provide a soft, elastic feel that minimizes friction and enhances typing comfort.
Overall, while the sound and feel characteristics of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch are not explicitly provided, based on its innovative design features, it is expected to offer a quiet and smooth typing experience that rivals the buttery smoothness and moderate sound profile of the TTC Gold Red linear switch. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique qualities, providing users with options to tailor their keyboard to their preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the Gold Red and Zero Degree 0° switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and design features.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a light-medium level of resistance with a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° switch from Gateron would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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