TTC Gold Silver vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and SP-Star RedBlue mechanical keyboard switches, one can see clear distinctions in their respective features. The Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, delivering a solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a resonant sound signature. On the other hand, the RedBlue offers a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. The Gold Silver provides a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity, while the RedBlue appeals to those looking for a comfortable typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Silver and the SP-Star RedBlue switches share some similarities, particularly in the top housing which is made of polycarbonate for both models. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Silver features a nylon material while the RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon typically produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate.
The use of different bottom housing materials in the Gold Silver and RedBlue switches results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing in the Gold Silver creates a deeper and fuller sound, contributing to a more muted and round typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the RedBlue adds to its sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance of the keystrokes. This difference in sound and feel highlights the impact that bottom housing materials can have on the overall typing experience, showcasing how the choice of material plays a crucial role in determining the switch's characteristics.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of typing experience. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded typing feel, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall clarity of keystrokes. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help users make informed decisions based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is known, while the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Gold Silver switch is unknown, whereas the RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In terms of weight, the Gold Silver switch is lighter due to its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience or extended gaming sessions. The RedBlue switch, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Gold Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the RedBlue switch. The Gold Silver's 3.5 mm travel distance may be more preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time, while the RedBlue's longer 4 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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, both the TTC Gold Silver and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. The Gold Silver switch is described as thocky, providing a deep, satisfying sound with each press, while the RedBlue switch also offers a thocky sound but with a slightly different low-pitched tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound signature.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a polished and mild typing experience. The Gold Silver switch boasts a silky and subtle feel, ensuring smooth key travel with reduced friction and gentle resistance, creating a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished feel, catering to those who appreciate a more gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. Both switches fall within the safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, making them accessible to a wide range of users.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Silver and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer quality performance in terms of sound and feel. They provide a solid bottom-out with a satisfying sound profile, as well as a smooth and polished typing experience. Whether you prefer the slightly deeper thocky sound of the Gold Silver switch or the low-pitched tone of the RedBlue switch, you can expect similar results in terms of feel and performance. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for rapid responsiveness and a smooth typing experience with a distinct sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a decisive bottom-out and a harmonized sound signature that complements its swift action. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be more suitable. These switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and sound, so choosing between the two would depend on your specific preferences and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that enhance the overall typing experience, so it's essential to consider your priorities when making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
