TTC Gold Silver vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and Dareu Holly offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, delivering a decisive bottom-out and resonant sound signature with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Holly stands out for its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound profile that blends chirpy and clacky elements. While the Gold Silver offers a smooth and polished typing experience, the Holly provides a balanced and distinctive feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Holly feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The similarities between the two switches in terms of their polycarbonate top housings means that users can expect a consistent sound profile when typing on either switch.
In contrast, the Gold Silver and the Holly differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Gold Silver utilizing a nylon bottom housing while the Holly also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, providing a unique typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Holly share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, their differing nylon bottom housings offer users a variety of sound profiles to choose from. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings mean that users can expect a different typing experience depending on which switch they use, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver switch may be preferred by those who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions, while the Holly switch's heavier actuation force may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Dareu Holly tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Silver switch falls into the category of a shorter travel distance, appealing to those looking for quick responsiveness, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Holly switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a different feel due to their variation in travel distance, with the Gold Silver being on the shorter end and the Holly on the longer end. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Silver and Dareu Holly switches offer distinct auditory experiences. The TTC Gold Silver switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which provides a deep and satisfying tone with each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Holly switch features a chirpy and clacky sound signature, adding a unique mix of squeaky and sharp tones to the typing experience. Both switches are described as having a neutral overall sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. The switch is also noted for its mild and subtle characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with a light resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, information regarding the tactile feel of the Dareu Holly switch is not available.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and Dareu Holly tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver switch excels in providing a rapid and precise typing experience with a deep thocky sound and polished feel, while the Holly switch caters to users looking for a distinctive sound profile with chirpy and clacky elements. Despite their differences, both switches feature a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, consider the specific qualities each switch offers. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke experience, and a resonant sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique sound combination of chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium actuation force for a balanced typing experience, the Dareu Holly switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the characteristics that align with your typing style. Happy typing!
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