TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Type S, both linear switches. The TTC Gold Silver is known for its rapid responsiveness, providing a solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a smooth journey from press to bottoming out. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a weightier keystroke with a pleasing sound signature that leans towards a deeper acoustic experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Type S provides a more balanced and subdued typing 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Type S switches feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon materials allows them to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. This similarity in bottom housing materials suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out keys.
In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Gateron Type S features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Nylon, on the other hand, tends to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. The difference in top housing materials between the two switches may result in distinct sound characteristics when typing or releasing keys.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Type S switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the Gold Silver's top housing may provide a different typing experience compared to the Gateron Type S's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Type S is the heavier option in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Type S requires 55 grams to actuate a keystroke. Additionally, the Gold Silver's bottom out force is unknown, whereas the Type S has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gold Silver, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Type S due to its heavier forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. A 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 prioritize quicker response times may prefer the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the Type S switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer their own benefits based on individual preferences, providing a variety of options to cater to different typing and gaming styles.
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 S 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, delivering a deep and rich sound with each press. This switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a subdued sound, dampening the overall typing noise for a more subtle experience. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a deeper tone while the Type S offers a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. With mild and subtle characteristics, this switch provides a gentle resistance and a comfortable typing feel suitable for most users. In contrast, information about the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not available. However, based on the sound profile and weightier bottom-out mentioned earlier, it's safe to assume that the Type S switch may offer a more substantial and solid feel compared to the Gold Silver.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Type S linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound with a polished and silky typing experience, making it a fast and smooth option for users seeking rapid response. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a more subdued sound profile and potentially a weightier typing feel, catering to those who prefer a quieter and more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Gateron Type S linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a shortened travel distance, and a thocky, low-pitched sound signature, then the TTC Gold Silver would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke, a neutral and subdued sound profile, and a factory-lubed switch, then the Gateron Type S would be the better fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics and provide a smooth typing experience, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Silver and Type S will depend on your individual preferences and typing needs.
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