TTC Gold Silver vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh BCP present two compelling choices, each with unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystrokes, which feature a shortened travel distance that culminates in a satisfying, solid bottom-out. This switch's sonic profile is low-pitched and thocky, providing an engaging auditory experience that complements its swift action. In contrast, the Kailh BCP draws inspiration from the beloved Black Cherry Pie switches, offering a delightful, bouncy feel that transforms every keystroke into a tactile sensation. Known for its creamy texture and poppy sound, the BCP switch provides a clacky auditory feedback that many typists find rewarding. While the Gold Silver shines in its speed and fluidity, the BCP stands out for its unique tactile experience and engaging soundscape. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh BCP, a stark contrast is evident in their choice of top housing materials. The Gold Silver switch utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic is essential for users who prefer a more resonant auditory experience while typing, especially when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects of the lighting. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Thus, while both switches aim to provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different auditory preferences through their respective materials.
When examining the bottom housing of these switches, it becomes apparent that both the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh BCP utilize nylon. This choice aligns the two switches in terms of the characteristics of their bottom housing—the softness and sound-absorbent nature of nylon contribute to a similar deeper sound experience in both models. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the typing experience, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. As a result, despite the differences in their top housing materials, the sound produced upon bottoming out will be consistent between these two switches, giving users a comparable feel in this aspect.
Overall, the divergent materials in the top housings of the TTC Gold Silver and the Kailh BCP suggest distinct auditory experiences during use, with one being sharper and the other deeper. However, the shared nylon material in the bottom housings creates a bridge between the two, resulting in a similar sound signature during key presses. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom for the Gold Silver versus the nylon top and bottom for the BCP allows users to experience a blend of sound profiles, showcasing how different materials can be strategically utilized to achieve both functional and aesthetic objectives in mechanical switch design.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Kailh BCP linear switch, there's a notable difference in their actuation forces, with the Gold Silver requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke while the BCP requires a heavier 52 grams. This makes the TTC Gold Silver the lighter option, which could be advantageous for users who prefer less resistance during prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might gravitate toward the Kailh BCP due to its heavier actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh BCP has a measurable force of 63.5 grams, providing a firm conclusion to each keystroke, which contrasts with the TTC Gold Silver that lacks specified bottom out force data. Consequently, users seeking feedback from bottoming out will find the BCP more satisfying, whereas the Gold Silver may appeal to those prioritizing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of a keyboard equipped with either of these switches. The identical travel distance means that both switches will provide the same amount of resistance and key feel during operation, allowing for a comparable typing experience in terms of depth and force required to actuate the switch. Overall, the Gold Silver and BCP switches offer equivalent travel distances, ensuring consistent performance for typists and gamers alike.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 switch offers a thocky, low-pitched profile that delivers a deep, rich sound with each keystroke. This sound is characterized by its bass-heavy quality, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that feels both fulfilling and balanced. The neutral quality of the sound makes it versatile enough for any environment, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, the Kailh BCP’s sound profile is not clearly defined in the data, leaving some uncertainty about its specific acoustic characteristics. However, it’s noted that the BCP is a reimagined version of the iconic Black Cherry Pie switches, suggesting a potentially unique and distinctive sound that could differ from typical linear switches.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Silver excels with its polished, silky, and mild characteristics. The smooth typing experience allows for reduced friction and an overall refined feel that enhances user comfort and speed. The subtle nature of the switch ensures that it’s approachable for a variety of typists, providing a gentle yet responsive touch with every press. The Kailh BCP is described with qualities like creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy, indicating a typing experience that is likely to be more dynamic and spring-like compared to the smooth and consistent feel of the Gold Silver. Without detailed descriptors for the BCP’s specific feel characteristics, it’s challenging to provide a direct comparison.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch stands out for its responsive sound and polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Meanwhile, while the Kailh BCP offers a unique tactile sensation that may appeal to those who prefer a bouncier feedback, its sound profile remains unspecified. Both switches cater to different user preferences, with the TTC Gold Silver providing a more traditional linear switch experience, while the BCP may intrigue those looking for an innovative twist on familiar designs. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience, though the Gold Silver’s established qualities give it a slight edge in terms of clarity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch ultimately hinges on your individual priorities and typing preferences. If you value rapid responsiveness and a smooth, seamless keystroke experience, the TTC Gold Silver is an excellent choice. Its low-pressure actuation, polished feel, and thocky sound profile make it well-suited for fast-paced typing and gaming, where every millisecond counts. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and engaging typing feel, the Kailh BCP switch offers a signature poppy and clacky sound that enhances the enjoyment of each keystroke. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and creamy tactile feedback provide a more substantial connection with your typing, making it a great option for those who like to relish every press. By considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style, whether you lean more towards speed and efficiency or a richer auditory experience.
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