TTC Gold Silver vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Silver and the BSUN Olive mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to your personal preference in typing experience. The Gold Silver offers a swift and responsive linear switch that delivers a smooth and solid bottom-out with each key press. On the other hand, the Olive provides a tactile switch with a distinct tactile feedback and a satisfyingly deep sound. The Gold Silver is perfect for those looking for speed, fluidity, and a subtle sound profile, while the Olive is ideal for users who crave a more tactile and crisp typing experience with a noticeable auditory satisfaction. 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
45g
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
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Bsun Olive, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top housings. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Olive's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast showcases how the choice of material in the top housing can significantly impact the overall auditory experience of the switch.
On the other hand, when examining the bottom housing materials, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, while the Olive's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. This similarity indicates that despite differences in top housing materials, the bottom housing can still play a significant role in influencing the overall sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a balanced auditory experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique blend of sound qualities when pressing down on the switch and letting go of a key. While the Gold Silver and Olive may utilize different materials in their top and bottom housings, they ultimately offer similar results in terms of creating a satisfying and nuanced sound profile for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Gold Silver has an unknown bottom out force, while the Olive has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that the Olive switch requires more force to fully press down compared to the Gold Silver switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Silver switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Olive switch due to its heavier bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, both switches provide a similar experience, but the difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Olive being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Gold Silver switch may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Olive switch, which could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. However, for those who prioritize a fast and responsive typing experience, the Olive switch's slightly shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. In conclusion, while the differences in travel distance between the two switches are minimal, the slight variation may impact the overall typing experience for different users.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive switch's sound description is unknown, but based on its POM housing material, it may offer a resonant and deep sound similar to other switches with similar characteristics. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant sound experience, with the Gold Silver offering a more specific thocky and low-pitched sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and a subtle sound signature. Conversely, the BSUN Olive switch is characterized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing pronounced tactile feedback with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy, responsive feel. While the feel of these switches differs in terms of tactility and feedback intensity, both are designed to enhance the typing experience and offer a satisfying feel while typing.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, along with a polished and silky feel for a smooth and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive switch stands out with its accented and sharp tactile feedback, creating a more pronounced and invigorating typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Silver or the Olive switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the BSUN Olive tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke experience, and a satisfying sound signature, then the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a deep, resonant sound, pronounced tactile feedback, and a satisfying bottom-out feel, then the Olive switch might be more suited to your typing preferences. Consider your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience to make an informed decision on which switch would best enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what characteristics align with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
