TTC Gold Silver vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and Jwick Taro offer distinct advantages to cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness, providing a solid bottom-out and resonant sound signature with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Gold Silver is polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Taro is buttery and stepped. Both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different users, but diving deeper into their characteristics will help in deciding the best switch for individual needs.
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Jwick Taro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. By using the same material for the top housing, both switches are able to achieve similar sound profiles and visual effects.
However, where the two switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Taro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing with similar sound-enhancing qualities. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a rounder and duller sound when typing, creating a unique auditory experience for users.
Overall, while the top housing of both the TTC Gold Silver and the Jwick Taro shares similarities in their polycarbonate material, the bottom housing sets them apart. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a distinct typing experience, with each switch offering a different depth and fullness to the sound profile. Whether it be the sharper sound of the Gold Silver or the rounder sound of the Taro, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the combination of housing materials in each switch.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Silver does not specify a value, while the Taro has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Taro switch requires more force to fully press the key down. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Taro switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, making them suitable for those looking for quick and responsive keystrokes, especially favored by gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant for most users, as both switches offer a relatively shallow travel distance compared to more traditional options. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer keystroke 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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 well-regarded for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each press. The neutral sound signature of this switch makes it suitable for a wide range of users and settings, whether at home or in the office. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch also offers a neutral sound profile, ensuring a moderate level of sound that is appropriate for various typing environments. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a deeper tone while the Taro maintains a more balanced sound output.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver switch is praised for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, this switch offers a refined and gentle typing feel that appeals to many users. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch is described as buttery and stepped, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation with a mild tactile response. While the Gold Silver offers a more refined and polished typing experience, the Taro switch focuses on a smooth and consistent feel with a subtle tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch both excel in different aspects. The Gold Silver offers a swift and precise typing experience with a thocky sound profile and a polished feel, while the Taro provides a cozy and consistent typing experience with a buttery sound and a stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the rapid responsiveness of the Gold Silver or the comfortable tactility of the Taro switch to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and requirements. If you value rapid responsiveness, a smooth keystroke experience, and a resonant sound signature, the Gold Silver might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy and tactile typing experience with snappy feedback, the Taro switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the Gold Silver is ideal for those seeking speed and precision, while the Taro offers a comfortable and tactile typing feel. Consider these factors carefully to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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