TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock T1 offer distinct experiences for users. The Gold Silver is lauded for its rapid responsiveness, providing a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. Its shortened travel distance and smooth journey from press to bottom-out result in a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the T1 is known for its comfortable typing experience, featuring a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain on a window. While the Gold Silver is characterized by its polished, thocky feel, the T1 offers a stepped tactile experience. If you're looking for speed and precision, the Gold Silver may be the way to go. However, if comfort and a satisfying tactile bump are more your style, the T1 could be the better choice. 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
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock T1 utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through the housing. Despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, there may be slight differences in sound due to factors such as design and construction.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gold Silver and T1 opt for a nylon construction. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this feature, the specific design and build of each switch may impact the overall sound and feel when typing.
When considering the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to recognize how the combination of different housing materials can affect the typing experience. With the top and bottom housings playing different roles in sound production, the specific qualities of each material will be more prominent in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding the unique qualities of each housing material, enthusiasts can make informed decisions about which switch will best suit their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Durock T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Silver switch is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gold Silver switch would be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Durock T1 would provide a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the TTC Gold Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock T1. The difference might seem small, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a quicker response time may opt for the Gold Silver with its shorter travel distance, while others who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the T1 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming style.
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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a deep and satisfying typing experience. The sound is neutral, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory feedback, with the Gold Silver showcasing a deeper and more resonant tone compared to the T1.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience. The switch offers a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and ensuring a sleek key travel. The feel of the Gold Silver is mild and subtle, making it approachable and comfortable for most users. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feedback, offering a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The T1 also boasts a polished finish, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and precise typing experience with a thocky sound and polished feel. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a comfortable and tactile typing experience with a rain-like sound and stepped feel. Both switches cater to different preferences - the Gold Silver for those seeking speed and fluidity, and the T1 for those looking for comfort and tactility. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers rapid responsiveness and a precise, smooth keystroke experience with a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force requirement. Consider what qualities matter most to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly between the TTC Gold Silver and Durock T1.
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