TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, providing a quick and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. Its smooth journey from press to bottoming out, coupled with a resonant sound signature, creates a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a different experience with a focus on a medium-weight feel and a sound signature leaning towards deeper tones. While the Gold Silver excels in speed and precision, the Type A aims for a balanced tactile experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Type A switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. However, the Gold Silver stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting.
In terms of sound profile, the Gold Silver switch showcases a contrast between its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The top housing's characteristics contribute to the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch features nylon housings both on the top and bottom, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile overall. Despite using different materials, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound profiles.
While the Gold Silver switch prioritizes a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Gateron Type A switch opts for a more consistent and deep sound with nylon housings on both the top and bottom. The choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile of each switch, from the high-pitched clarity of polycarbonate to the fuller tones of nylon. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Silver is unknown, while the Type A has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. The Gold Silver switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Type A switch is ideal for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weights to cater to varying preferences, ensuring that users can select the one that best suits their typing style and needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type A switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver switch. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Gold Silver switch with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback may opt for the Gateron Type A switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 often described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, producing a deep, rich sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch is labeled as having a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. Depending on the user's preference for a deeper or softer sound, each switch provides a unique auditory experience that can complement different typing styles or environments.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is currently unknown. However, based on the available information on the Gold Silver switch's feel, users can expect a similar level of smoothness and gentle typing feel from the Type A switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a rapid and responsive typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, combined with a polished and silky feel for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is noted for its innovative design and deep sound signature, with details on the feel remaining undisclosed. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches present unique qualities that can cater to different typing needs, offering a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type A linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, precise bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature in your keystrokes, the TTC Gold Silver may be the better choice for you. This switch offers a blend of speed, sound, and fluidity, giving you a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Gateron Type A might be more suitable for you. Its innovative design and factory lubing techniques provide a smooth typing experience with a medium-weight feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for speed, sound, and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
