TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. On one hand, the TTC Gold Silver switch offers rapid responsiveness and a solid bottom-out with each keystroke, accompanied by a resonant sound signature and smooth journey from press to bottom-out. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed, sound, and fluidity in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch series presents a visually captivating selection of pastel colors with a unique dry, wispy, and airy typing experience. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, these switches feel weightless and frictionless, providing a hollow sound signature while remaining smooth to press. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Sea Glass, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant and brighter sound. Despite these differences, both materials are known for their translucency, making them ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Additionally, the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sea Glass's blend bottom housing also contributes to a pleasant and unique sound experience.
In terms of sound profiles, the choice between polycarbonate and the Polymer nylon/UHMWPE blend for the top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Sea Glass's blend top housing offers a more pleasant and brighter sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Silver and the blend bottom housing of the Sea Glass provide different sound characteristics as well. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the blend bottom housing of the Sea Glass contributes to a unique and pleasant sound experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Sea Glass play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. While they may differ in terms of stiffness and sound characteristics, both materials offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Gold Silver or the pleasant and brighter sound of the Polymer nylon/UHMWPE blend in the Sea Glass, both switches provide distinct sound experiences that can enhance the typing or gaming experience for users.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver and Durock Sea Glass linear switches both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the force needed to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Silver does not have a specified value, while the Sea Glass requires 62 grams of force to fully press a key. This makes the Sea Glass the heavier option of the two switches. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or gaming. Conversely, a heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, users looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Silver switch, while those desiring a more substantial feel may opt for the Sea Glass.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Sea Glass has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for individuals who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Sea Glass to provide a more satisfying depth compared to the Gold Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 qualities, providing a deep and satisfying sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch series offers a uniquely hollow sound signature, adding a touch of airiness to the typing experience. Depending on your preference, the Gold Silver switch provides a robust and resonant sound, while the Sea Glass switch delivers a more hollow and lightweight auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and a gentle touch. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switch is described as frictionless and feathery, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing feel with minimal resistance. Both switches fall into the category of mild switches, offering a comfortable typing experience without being too pronounced in terms of sound or feel.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a thocky sound profile, making it a solid choice for those looking for precision and speed in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch stands out with its distinct dryness, weightlessness, and hollow sound signature, catering to users who appreciate a unique typing feel and auditory feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options that provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature in your keystrokes, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. Its smooth and swift actuation, paired with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique dry and airy typing sensation, accompanied by a weightless feel and a hollow sound signature, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch could be the perfect fit for you. Its frictionless nature, mild resistance, and smooth typing experience make it a standout option for those seeking a different tactile experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall user experience.
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