TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Type L both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The TTC Gold Silver is known for its rapid responsiveness, providing a solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a resonant sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its light touch, requiring only 45g to bottom out and offering a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the TTC Gold Silver is polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Gateron Type L is described as neutral, subdued, feathery, and easy-to-press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Silver Linear

Gateron Type L Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type L both feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's relatively softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound during typing. However, the Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Type L employs a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to the bottom housing.

In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Silver stands out as it features a polycarbonate top housing that is clear and translucent. This makes it ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate allows the light to shine through creating a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L's nylon housing, while not transparent, still offers a classic look that is durable and functional. The difference in housing materials does not significantly impact the overall performance of the switches, but it does affect the sound profile and the visual appeal for users who prioritize aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards.

Overall, both the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type L provide unique sound profiles and aesthetics based on their housing materials. While the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Type L's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a similar sound profile, with the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder tone. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile, aesthetics, and the specific features that each user values in their mechanical keyboard.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Type L is the lighter option with an actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gold Silver's 45 grams. The Gold Silver switch does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the Type L has a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a consistent force throughout the keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Type L may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, for users who appreciate a more substantial typing feel, the Gold Silver may provide a more satisfying push due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type L switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Silver switch. A 0.5 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may lean towards the Type L switch. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Gold Silver providing a quicker response and the Type L offering a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver switch is best characterized as producing a thocky sound that is low-pitched and neutral, delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound signature, providing a dampened and subtle sound that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Gold Silver emphasizing a more pronounced and resonant sound, while the Type L focuses on a smoother and more subtle auditory experience.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Silver switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and minimal friction. The Gateron Type L switch, in contrast, is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, providing an exceptionally light typing feel that requires minimal exertion, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. While the Gold Silver switch emphasizes smoothness and refinement in the typing experience, the Type L switch prioritizes lightness and low-impact typing for reduced finger fatigue.

Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and precise keystroke experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound profile and a polished, silky feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch stands out for its lightness and contemporary factory lubing techniques, offering a subdued sound signature and a feathery, easy-to-press typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Type L switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you value rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a polished, silky typing experience with subtle characteristics, making it suitable for those who appreciate a smooth and refined typing feel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a subdued sound profile, and a feathery, easy-to-press typing experience, the Gateron Type L might be more to your liking. With its light actuation force of 45g and a factory lubed, neutral sound profile, the Type L provides a comfortable and low-impact typing feel that is ideal for extended typing sessions.

Ultimately, whether you choose the TTC Gold Silver or the Gateron Type L, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. It is important to consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision. Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between these switches, you can confidently choose the one that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

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Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more