TTC Gold Silver vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the TTC Gold Silver, a linear switch, and the TTC Iron, also a linear switch. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, offering a shortened travel distance that results in a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Iron showcases TTC's expertise with its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, promising a fatigue-free typing experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Iron delivers precision and pleasure with its unique sound profile. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and TTC Iron switches both feature unique housing materials that greatly impact the sound profile of the switch. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Iron's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Iron's POM top housing offers a more classic and pleasing appearance. Despite their differences, both housing materials bring their own unique qualities to the switches, resulting in distinct sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Iron's POM bottom housing also offers a deep and muted sound profile, creating a more subtle typing experience. While both bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, the nylon in the Gold Silver and POM in the Iron add their own characteristics to the typing feel and sound feedback.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and TTC Iron switches, it becomes clear how these materials can impact the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials demonstrate how each component plays a role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While the Gold Silver and Iron may have differences in their housing materials, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound, the housing materials of these switches contribute to their overall performance and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the TTC Iron linear switch, we can see that the Gold Silver has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Iron's 41 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Iron is 50 grams, which is heavier than the Gold Silver's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Gold Silver switch may provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the Iron switch may offer a more substantial push feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Silver switch may be the preferred choice, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the Iron switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - the Gold Silver would provide a faster and more responsive feel, while the Iron would offer a slightly deeper and more satisfying key press. Ultimately, whether you opt for the shorter or longer travel distance, you can expect a smooth and consistent typing experience with either switch.
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 TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Silver switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched profile, offering a deep and satisfying sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the TTC Iron switch provides a clacky sound signature, adding a sharp and snappy tone to each press. Both switches are described as having a moderate sound profile overall, suitable for a wide range of users and environments.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a seamless and pleasant typing feel, suitable for users seeking a gentle and approachable switch. The TTC Iron switch, on the other hand, is highlighted for being easy-to-press and mild, providing a low-impact typing experience with minimal force required to activate. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing feel, catering to different preferences in terms of typing resistance.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in rapid responsiveness, with a swift and precise bottom-out accompanied by a resonant sound signature and smooth travel. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its pronounced clacky sound, light actuation for fatigue-free typing sessions, and buttery smooth travel. While both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice, tailored to their preference for sound and typing resistance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke, and a resonant sound, the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced clacky sound, a light actuation force, and buttery smooth travel, the Iron switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and fluidity (Gold Silver) or a satisfying sound and light actuation (Iron) in your mechanical keyboard experience. Choose wisely to enhance your typing sessions and overall enjoyment with your keyboard.
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