TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver with the Durock Medium Tactile mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Silver switch is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, culminating in a decisive bottom-out and resonant sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its balanced tactility and jelly-like sound. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Medium Tactile offers a more pronounced tactile 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Medium Tactile lies in their top housing materials. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This means that in terms of sound profile and aesthetic considerations, the Gold Silver and Medium Tactile are quite similar.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both switches offer a tactile typing experience enhanced by the properties of nylon.
In the overall typing experience of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Medium Tactile, the qualities of their respective housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. This division of housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with a combination of sharp, crisp sound and a deep, full sound profile in both switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch reveals some differences between the two. The Gold Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Medium Tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, although the Medium Tactile switch is described as medium-heavy, indicating a heavier typing experience compared to the Gold Silver switch. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver switch for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier feel of the Medium Tactile switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Medium Tactile's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Gold Silver may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Medium Tactile may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the 4.0mm being the most traditional. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch is renowned for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users in various settings. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound, providing a unique and pronounced auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. While sound is subjective and can be influenced by factors such as keycaps and keyboard case material, both switches offer distinct sound signatures that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Silver is polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The mild and subtle resistance of the Gold Silver switch provides a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. Conversely, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is accented and stepped, providing a tactile bump that is prominent yet not overwhelming. With a mild and polished finish, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a typing experience that balances tactility with smoothness, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Silver switch excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound with a polished and silky typing experience, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its jelly-like sound and accented, stepped tactility. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, so choosing between them will depend on your personal typing style and preference for tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches deliver exceptional performance in their respective categories, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness and a smooth, consistent keystroke with a thocky and low-pitched sound, then the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature and a more pronounced tactile feel, then the Medium Tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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