TTC Gold Silver vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Orange present two compelling options for enthusiasts and gamers alike, each with its unique characteristics. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and smooth keystroke journey, featuring a shortened travel distance that provides a reassuringly solid bottom-out with every press. This switch not only delivers a crisp tactile feedback but also offers a resonant sound signature that enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking speed and fluidity. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches, with their reissued heritage from Cherry’s original MX Orange line, cater to users who value a reliable and refined typing experience. While specific sound profiles for the MX Orange aren't explicitly detailed, their reputation speaks to a well-rounded performance that appeals to both typists and gamers alike. Ultimately, both switches excel in their respective realms; 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
55g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Orange switches, a notable distinction lies in the composition of their top housings. The Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing, creating a clear resonance that is amplified under RGB lighting conditions. In contrast, the MX Orange features a nylon top housing, which is inherently softer and absorbs sound more effectively. As a result, the sound profile produced is deeper and rounder, giving a markedly different acoustic experience despite both switches excelling in delivering tactile feedback.
On the other hand, the bottom houses of both switches share the same material: nylon. This shared aspect means that both the TTC Gold Silver and Cherry MX Orange switches will produce a similar depth and fullness to their sound due to the nylon's dampening properties. The softer nature of the nylon material leads to a more muted bottom-out sound and feel, which is consistent across both switches. This uniformity means that regardless of the top housing discrepancies, the tactile and auditory experience during the key press is aligned in terms of being deeper and rounder.
Ultimately, the combination of materials dictates the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The TTC Gold Silver's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom create a unique balance, delivering crisp sounds with a fuller tactile feedback, while the MX Orange focuses on a softer, deeper auditory experience contributed entirely by the nylon material. Users seeking a bright and resonant keypress may prefer the Gold Silver for its top housing, while those who favor a more subdued and warm typing experience will find the MX Orange to their liking. Therefore, while the nylon bottom provides a common sonic characteristic, the variance in the top housing materials allows for two distinct typing experiences overall.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, which has a higher actuation force of 55 grams. This difference indicates that the Gold Silver switch requires less force to actuate, potentially benefiting users who type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions, as it can reduce strain on the fingers. However, the bottom out force for both switches remains unspecified, so we cannot draw comparisons in that aspect. Generally, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Cherry MX Orange due to its heavier actuation force, while those who favor a lighter touch might lean towards the TTC Gold Silver. Without bottom out force data, both switches present a similar uncertainty in terms of the overall typing experience when pressed to the maximum, but the TTC Gold Silver is confirmed to be the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Gold Silver has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the TTC Gold Silver is the shorter option, offering a quicker response time, which may benefit gamers who prefer swift keystrokes. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a more substantial feel, which some users may find preferable for a more traditional typing experience. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Gold Silver may be the better choice, while the MX Orange caters to those who appreciate a deeper keystroke.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 boasts a rich, low-pitched thock that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This sound profile gives it a deep and resonant quality, making typing an engaging experience. The switch’s neutral range allows it to cater to various environments, serving as an excellent option for anyone from beginners to seasoned typists. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not have its sound characteristics explicitly defined in the provided information, which leaves its auditory profile somewhat ambiguous. However, players may generally gravitate toward Cherry switches in anticipation of a balanced and familiar auditory experience.
Feel is one of the standout features of the TTC Gold Silver switch, which is characterized by its polished and silky smooth keystroke. This smoothness minimizes friction, enabling a seamless experience whether you're typing rapidly or engaging in gaming. The mild and subtle resistance provides just the right amount of tactile feedback without overwhelming the user, making it a comfortable choice for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the feel of the Cherry MX Orange switch is not detailed, leaving potential users without a concrete understanding of how it may differ from the Gold Silver. Those familiar with Cherry switches, however, often expect a good level of smoothness and comfort.
In summary, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch shines with its thocky and rich sound, along with a polished and smooth feel that makes every keystroke enjoyable. It presents a refined balance suited for varied typing demands, while the Cherry MX Orange’s auditory and tactile qualities remain largely undefined, leaving potential users to rely on previous experiences with Cherry switches for an estimate. Without solid information about the MX Orange sound and feel, the TTC Gold Silver clearly stands out with its robust qualities, making it an excellent choice for newcomers and seasoned typists alike.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Gold Silver and the Cherry MX Orange linear switches largely depends on your specific typing preferences and use case. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness and enjoy a smooth, polished feel coupled with a rich, thocky sound, the TTC Gold Silver is likely the better option for you. This switch excels in environments where speed and accuracy are paramount, such as gaming or fast-paced typing sessions, allowing each keystroke to deliver a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you seek a more balanced and versatile switch that accommodates a variety of settings—whether at home or in the office—the Cherry MX Orange may be your ideal choice. Although details about its sound and feel are less described, its legacy and reissue enhance its appeal for those looking for familiarity and reliability. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize speed and auditory feedback or a well-rounded, adaptable typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
