TTC Gold Silver vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, both offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness, providing a solid bottom-out and a resonant sound signature with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch boasts innovation with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound. While the Gold Silver is polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Semi-Silent Linear is subdued, snappy, and buttery. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both have polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches where clarity and sharpness are desired. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the switch. With both switches using polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound and feel characteristics when typing.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the TTC Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housing materials. Despite the difference in top housing, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, offering similar typing sound and feel characteristics.
When considering the overall typing experience, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. By using different materials for the top and bottom housings, the TTC Gold Silver and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear provide a balanced typing experience with a combination of sharpness from polycarbonate and depth from nylon.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Silver switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Gold Silver switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Silver switch due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals looking for a more robust typing experience may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for users who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quick and precise keystrokes. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Silver and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. This switch also offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch produces a more subdued sound, creating a quieter typing experience with a subtle and gentle sound profile. Both switches maintain a neutral sound profile, catering to a wide range of preferences and settings. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. This switch also has a mild and subtle feel, providing a gentle typing experience suitable for a variety of users. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and snappy typing feel, combining responsiveness with a smooth and buttery keystroke. With a polished finish, this switch ensures a sleek and effortless typing sensation. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Silver emphasizing smoothness and the Semi-Silent Linear focusing on responsiveness.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing rapid responsiveness with a harmonious sound signature and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative semi-silent design, offering a quiet topping-out sound coupled with a clacky bottom-out sound and a silky smooth typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Gold Silver emphasizing speed and sound while the Semi-Silent Linear prioritizes a quiet and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a resonant sound signature, and a smooth typing journey, opt for the Gold Silver. On the other hand, if you value a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, a clacky bottom-out sound, and a silky smooth feel, the Semi-Silent Linear may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align more with your personal typing preferences and needs.
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